German, Nuremberg, second half 15th century

with indistinct ink inscription to the reverse; together with a brass alms dish centred by a band containing a foliate motif, German, probably Nuremberg, 16th century

Frits Philips, Eindhoven;
his sale, Sotheby's Eindhoven, The Frits Philips Collection, 4-5 December 2006, lots 295 and 310

There is dirt and wear to the bowls consistent with age and handling. There is wear to the enamelling on the smaller dish. There is a large open fissure at the side, where the lip meets the bowl, and a number of repairs to the reverse. The larger dish has a copper-coloured patina which has worn in many areas. There are a number of scratches and there is a small hole to the edge. There is some greening to the surface. Otherwise the condition of both bowls is good.
"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."

The present dish is related to a group from Nuremberg considered to be the earliest in date of their type. Further examples are in the Castello Sforzesca in Milan and the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam. Neither of the aforementioned is adorned with enamels.

RELATED LITERATURE
O. ter Kuile, Koper en brons, cat. Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, Amsterdam, 1986, p. 172, no. 234