JACQUES PALLIARD (PALIARD OR PAILARD) (1718-1787), BESANÇON, FIRST HALF 18TH CENTURY, A SILVER MEMENTO MORI POCKET WATCH |

Engraved silver skull-shaped case, exterior decoration with allegory of Death, the Birth of Eve, Adam and Eve, surrounded by foliage; interior with Nativity scene; many inscriptions in Latin: sit . justitiae satis fecit [...] superavit . salutem comparavit, sicut meis sic omnibus idem, tempus ed ax rerum, tu que invidiosa vetustas, scala coeli ad gloriam via [She has satisfied justice, she has overcome trials, she has prepared salvation; as I treat my relatives, similarly I treat everyone; time devours all things; you too, old age is hungry for you; the watch, time scale is the way to the glory of the sky] Movement : gilded full plate, verge escapement, decoratively pierced with foliage motives French balance cock, spiral balance,  steel counter pivot, silver set-up wheel.

The skull is in overall very good condition. The top of the skull engraved on one side with scenes of the Birth of Eve and the Temptation of Adam on the other side, and with a dancing skeleton on the forehead with scrollwork in the background. The inside is engraved with a scene of the Nativity and the dial with scrollwork and a moon's head. The mechanism is sold in its current state without guarantee. The detached later hand could be easily reattached. Maker's mark and control mark appear to have been rubbed. The key shaped as a small skull is attached to a chain.
"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."