An Indo-Portuguese cabinet (contador), India, probably Goa, late 17th/early 18th century

the rectangular rosewood body on four tall feet with stylised animal legs, with four top drawers, two combined middle drawers, four central drawers and four combined bottom drawers, the surface decorated in two types of wood with scrolling foliate designs and birds possibly detailed in ivory, two brass handles, one on each side, brass corner mounts, the front drawers each including stylised bird motif, each keyhole with openwork metal mount cut as confronted birds, in detachable parts 

Ex-collection Anthony Freire Marreco.
By descent from his family collection since the early 19th century.

In generally good condition, the surface with few minor knicks and scratches consistent with use, especially visible to reverse. The brass corner mounts with some wear and rubbing, some of the handles possibly later replacement as well as side handles. Appears to have been set backwards indicating previous disjointment or later marriage, lacking keys, the top box is detachable, as viewed.
"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."

This beautiful cabinet once belonged to Anthony Freire Marreco, the last surviving counsel to the British delegation at the Nuremberg Trials in 1946. A passionate human rights activist, in 1960 he formed part of a group which founded the charity which was later to become Amnesty International. The present cabinet, which would have most likely been produced in Goa for the Portuguese market, would have then been sent to England by Anthony Marreco's grandfather in the early nineteenth century when he became a naturalised British subject.