Spanish Colonial, Mexico, circa 1700

the body incised with arms inspired by those of the Royal House of Habsburg supported by a double-headed eagle, the lid incised with the symbol of a pierced heart, and the interior with the painted monogram of the Jesuit Order: IHS

Overall the condition of the casket is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are small chips and losses to the edges of the tortoiseshell, particularly to the bottom corner of the left main side panel. There are four splits running down the back panel and two splits to the panel lining the underside (these terminate in further splits). There are restorations to the underside and there appear to be reattachments here. There is oxidation to the silver consistent with material, and residues of silver polish on the tortoiseshell around the mounts. There is dirt and wear to the paintwork on the interior. The wood core is composed in sections and joints are visible to the interior. The wood core may be a later addition, with the tortoiseshell having been reassembled around it so as to preserve the material better.
"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 fine casket would have been made in Mexico for the European market, using a technique that is believed to have been introduced to the Americas by Missionaries travelling from India. It compares closely with another in the Hanns Schell collection, Graz (inv. no. 4669). Note the similar incised decoration, which also includes the symbol of the pierced heart on the lid.

RELATED LITERATURE
M. Pall (ed.), Locked Treasures. Caskets and Cabinets from Around the World, cat. Hanns Schell Collection, Graz, 2006, p. 84, no. 66