A Dutch silver and mother of pearl tobacco box, maker's mark only 'HE conjoined H' (unidentified), circa 1750

rectangular with cut corners, the mother-of-pearl lid engraved with a lady sewing by her bed, Dutch verses below, interior lid initialled LV, plain mother of pearl base, moulded rims

fairly crisp carving to mother of pearl with small areas of scratching and small losses to corners. Minor dents commensurate with age.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The Dutch verses can be translated as follows: 'The fleas are stinging fiercely, so I cannot sleep. / I had a bachelor with me, to have joy (then) my heart was in rest,/ I could not imagine us to have fleas but through my passion to donate him with my virgin rose'