Netherlandish and Lower Rhine, late 16th century

each with inscriptions and dated respectively: 1584, 1581 and 1570

S. W. Josephus Jitta;
his sale, Frederick Muller & Co. Amsterdam, 9-11 November 1897;
there acquired by his family;
thence by descent to the present owner

Overall the condition of the sheaths is good, with some wear and dirt to the surfaces consistent with age and handling. There is some rubbing to the carvings, and the wood has darkened in the crevices. There is minor stable splitting to the wood consistent with the material. The two Netherlandish sheaths each have a hole at the top, and in one of the holes there appears to be a modern metal nail or dowel. There is some old newspaper inside the three sheaths. There is some tarnishing to the silver mount, and some green residue to both ends of the Rhenish sheath.
"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."

Compare a similar boxwood sheath dated 1581 in the Victoria and Albert Museum (inv. no. W.67-1923).