TWO GOLD-MOUNTED TORTOISESHELL PIQUÉ BOXES, EARLY 18TH CENTURY | Two gold-mounted tortoiseshell piqué boxes, early 18th Century

the first a dark tortoiseshell boîte à ballon, Naples, circa 1730, inlaid in gold piqué posé et point the lid with two putti on patterned grounds within scrollwork, the base with a diaper pattern round a central rosette; and an octagonal tortoiseshell miniature case, the panels probably French, circa 1700, decorated in two colour gold piqué point with formal motifs, later reeded mounts,  containing a miniature of a man with pointed beard, ruff and armour, 19th century, both 6.5cm, 2 1/2 in.

the first in excellent condition for this type of work, a few minor losses to the piqué posé throughout, two small surface chips to tortoiseshell on the base, one fine crack on the left side (ca. 2 cm long), barely visible from the outside; the second in equally good order with almost non piqué missing, some surface wear to tortoiseshell on the base, lid on the lower half not closing entirely flush, miniature slightly 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."