Two Scottish silver-mounted boxes

one double-lidded oval, early 18th century, silver and ivory the outer silver engraved with the arms of Belsches, bordered with piqué clouté, the lid interior with painted flower spray, the other oblong, ram's horn with hinged cover, 19th century, the mounts unmarked

The arms are those of Belsches with a mark of cadence for a second son, for Alexander, second son of John Belsches of Tofts. It was Alexander, thought to have been born in the 1650s, who acquired the estate of Invermay

Sold with this lot is a brief manuscript note relating to the first item in this lot: 'This box was found in a Spanish Ship captured in 1740 by Capt. Alexr Belsches who had his arms ingraved on the lid, his picture hangs in [. . .] Greenhill'

The inside rim of the oval box is split and coming away from the base at the back.
"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."