French, late 16th century

the scraper, marked: C

probably Sotheby's London, The Palace Collections of Egypt, 20 March 1954, part of lot 1107

Overall the condition of the silver is good. There is dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age and handling, including a few small nicks and scratches. There is some tarnishing to the silver. The steel is in good condition with minor nicks and scratches. There is some oxidization, in particular between the scissor blades when you open them apart. There is some slight warping to the scissors. There are losses to the enamelling. These losses have been restored with dark blue wax. There are also minor cracks and scratches to the enamel. Otherwise the enamel is in good condition. The two pins that once secured the lid are now lost.
"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."

This nécessaire is one of only a handful of remaining objects made in what is thought to have been a Parisian workshop around 1570. The Musée du Louvre and Musée d'Armée each possess an example and one case without its scissors was sold in these rooms on 13 April 1981, lot 124.