Southern German, first half 18th century

Palais Galliera, Paris, 6-7 December 1974, Le Cabinet d'un Amateur de Qualité, lot 32

Brussels, Musée de la Maison d'Erasme, Anatomie des Vanités, 2008

A. Vanautgaerden (ed.), Anatomie des Vanités, exh. cat., Musée Maison d'Erasme, Brussels, 2008, pp. 84, 87, 88

Overall the condition of the ivory is very good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age, There is minor stable splitting to the ivory in areas consistent with the material and age, such as at the moulded drum base of the barley twist section of the stem. There are two small chips to two of the splits at this drum base. A patch of the surface at the top of one of the barley twists which has a darkish colour and rough texture (possibly the edge of the natural pulp cavity from the tusk). There are a few minor dark dirt marks. There are some minor abrasions to the surface, including to the side of the globe towards the top. The rays are separately carved and one of them has been reattached (glue residues visible). The three feet are separately carved and a little loose.
"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 the present lot to a pair of turned towers sold at Sotheby's Monte Carlo, 27 May 1980, lot 1190.