French, Limoges, 13th century

Brimo de Laroussilhe, Paris

Ville de Nîmes, Spring-Summer, 1950, no. 5

Overall the condition of the casket is very good. There is some wear and minor dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is wear to the gilding consistent with handling. There are some losses to the enamel, particularly around the lock. There is some slight bending to some of the individual plaques, including the right front leg, where a rivet has been lost. The ridge and hinges are 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."

For a comparable casket with a rectangular body akin to the cover, decorated on each side with six circular medallions in two rows displaying gilt-bronze winged angels and the ends with two similar medallions surmounted by two angels in the triangular section, see that from the treasure of the church of St. Yrieix and illustrated by Rupin (op.cit.). Another very similar casket with angels is in the Cluny museum in Paris (inv.Cl. 982).

RELATED LITERATURE
Rupin, L'Oeuvre de Limoges, Paris, 1890, fig. 398, p. 333