A German silver-gilt ewer and basin, Christoph Wild, Augsburg, 1616-1620

embossed, chased and engraved on a matted ground with Ceres and a water sprite surrounded by lobate scrolls, the rim with fruits and flowers groups and detachable putti's heads at the oval basin

clear hallmarks on foot rim and underside basin, no wear to gilding, very good condition.
"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."

Among the very few existing pieces by Christoph Wild recorded by Helmut Seling is the so-called Hunting and Work table of the Elector Johann Georg I of Saxony. This includes about 250 silver articles covering the princely activities of hunting, science, wood turning, gardening and painying as well as the Toilet, fitted together in an elaborate ebony veneered casket. Wild's association with this unique survival gives some indication of his importance as a goldsmith. The Hunting and Work table's type known as 'Feldtischen' was invented and sold by the Augsburg dealer and princely agent Philipp Heinhofer, who supplied the courts of his time with objects made by the best goldsmiths, including other Augsburg masters such as Matthaus Wallbaum and the Lenckers, Christoph and Johannes.