A Mexican pen-engraved fruitwood and ebony casket, made by German craftsmen from Augsburg/Ülm mid 17th century

of rectangular form, the top inlaid with huntsmen within a landscape, the inside of the top with two seated females, one playing the mandolin within a trelliswork border enclosing stylised flowerheads, the front inlaid with animals

Overall some minor surface wear, cracks and dents as visible in catalogue illustration. In good conserved condition. Rare Mexican casket.
"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."

Comparative Literature:
Exhibition Catalogue, El Meuble Mexicano Hostoria, evolucion e Influencia, p. 76, cat. 15, illustrates a coffer in similar technique (Coll. Banamex).
Rodrigo Rivero Lake, la Vision de un Antiquario illustrates a related piece described as Oaxaca.

There is type of writing desk (bufetillo) which was made in Oaxaca in the 17th century of wood decorated with zulaque similar in conception to this coffer, in the Museo Franz Mayer Mexico City (7-014 06785). It was based on German models which were copies of Spanish prototypes. These `German style' writing chests were made in Oaxaca mainly and their decoration was based often on engravings but executed in a distinctly naïve local style. Inlay was used occasionally but never to produce views of cities and ruins which were so popular in Germany. Figures as on the present example were depicted in 17th century German dress.