A RARE SET OF STRAW MARQUETRY COUNTER BOXES, FRENCH, MID 18TH CENTURY | A rare set of straw marquetry counter boxes, French, mid 18th century

rectangular,each decorated in pink, yellow green and naural straw, in the manner of Mariaval le jeune, the outer case with an orange tree in its tub above the motto: Ie promets et ie tiens, within flowers, strapwork and scrolls, the interior striped and fitted with four cut-cornered rectangular counter boxes each decorated with symbols and mottos with scrolled ornament, now containing 12 straw work beads, a bracelet and fragments of a linked watch chain

The lid of the large box slightly undulating, a lit to the front left corner of the lid. A few losses of straw to the surface on the rim around the lid. A split along the long side of the lid on the box reading ' Plus fidèle que heureuse'. Overall remarkable condition considering the age and the fragility of the material.
"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."

Luxurious counter boxes for various card games such as quadrille were popular accessories for the wealthy in 18th century France. The four colours used in their decoration represented the four suits: green for diamonds, red for spades, yellow for clubs and white for hearts. Most commonly to be found in ivory, many are inscribed with the name of their maker Mariaval le jeune, either à Paris or à Rouen. Although decorated straw work linings to tortoiseshell snuff boxes are known, it is extremely uncommon to find a complete counter set.