A rare fine French painted and iron bound casket first half 16th century

the hinged lid decorated with a male and female figure, urns of flowers, lozenge motifs and with swing handle, the sides with similar decoration all on a red ground, the mounts with flower head terminals and with traces of gilding, with a green painted interior

With printed paper inventory label for St. John and Cicely Hornby and marked in ink C74, to the underside of the lid.

A very rare casket. Painted decoration in very good order. Probably some redecoration to the piece - the box has always been painted (this paint is very thick). But at some stage in its long history it has been refreshed. The hasp over the lock plate would appear to be a later replacement. The lid has separated at some stage and now has two metal securing batons. One flower headed baton-mount on lid has probably been replaced. Lock probably later.
"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."

St. John Hornby (1867-1946) was a true 'Antiquarian' and great collector he primarily focused on Italian Medieval and Renaissance manuscripts and early printed books with a particular interest in illuminations. He went on to establish the Ashendene Press in 1894. This casket may well have appealed to him as it may have been a 'Missal' box and the finely painted decoration to its exterior may have recalled the beautifully worked illuminations that he loved.