A ceremonial burse for the Privy Seal, held by the Lord Privy Seal, late 19th/early 20th century

the burse worked in metal-thread and coloured threads, against a burgundy velvet ground, edged with metal thread, applied with with four tassels and with ribbon through the top eyelets, displaying the royal arms and insignia and incorporation the letters ‘CR’, a crest showing a crown and crowned lion, between two Tudor roses, a lion and a unicorn support the shield, showing the three passant guardant lions of England, the rampant lion of Scotland and the harp of Ireland, which is circled by the emblem of the Order of the Garter: reading Honi soit qui mal y pense (May he be shamed who thinks badly of it), below is the motto of English monarchs: Dieu et mon Droit (God and my Right), the reverse is plain burgundy velvet; hanging within a specially made glazed mahogany display stand, with hooks so that the burse is detachable (stand illustrated on-line)

Generally in good condition with some loses to the thread - notably to the tassels. Wooden case faded from exposure to sun. Very decorative piece.
"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."