A GOLD-MOUNTED HARDSTONE AND A PARCEL-GILT SILVER BOÎTE À MINIATURES, VARIOUS ORIGINS AND DATES | A gold-mounted hardstone and a parcel-gilt silver boîte à miniatures, various origins and dates

the first oval, of petrified wood, the lid inset with a gouache miniature of a village festival, spuriously signed: Van Blarenberghe, the gold frame with bright-cut ornament, the box probably German, late 18th century; the other of rectangular trunk form, each face inset with earlier gouache miniatures painted with travelling coaches and other modes of transport, ropetwist silver cagework mounts with pilaster corners, silver-gilt lining, unmarked apart from modern French control marks, probably German, late 19th century

some losses to miniatures on both boxes but general smart appearance.
"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."