Southern German, probably Augsburg, second half 17th century

inscribed: FIOHO...n... F.AI... to the underside

J. J. Ludwig, Regensburg;
with Julius Böhler, Munich, 2011

Overall, the condition of the sleeve is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is yellowing in areas, particularly at the high points, where there is also minor rubbing. The ivory's natural light grain is slightly visible. There is some greening and minor wear around the top edge, where mounts would have been attached. There are also a few dark marks to the inside around the top edge. There is a largely illegible inscription to the bottom edge.
"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 present ivory relates to a group of tankards based on a presumed model by Georg Petel (1601/2-1635), in turn derived from compositions by Rubens. These are usually given to Augsburg carvers from Petel's circle and dated to the mid- to late 17th century. Compare an example at the Victoria and Albert Museum (inv. no. 880-1882), and three in the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna (see op. cit.).

RELATED LITERATURE
K. Feuchtmayr and A. Schädler, Georg Petel: 1601/2-1634, Berlin, 1973, pp. 153-155, no. 91 and figs. 171-181