Spanish Colonial, 18th century

The Rt. Hon. Fiennes Neil Wykeham Cornwallis, 3rd Baron Cornwallis OBE DL (1921-2010);
the present owner

Overall the condition of the casket is good with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. A few very small pieces of bone and tortoiseshell inlay have been lost or detatched. A few pieces of tortoiseshell have raised a little. There is minor stable splitting to the tortoiseshell consistent with material. The key does not appear to function. The lid is slightly raised showing some of the interior. There are a few small chips and abrasions, including to the underside. There is some minor staining to the fabric interior.
"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 elaborate floral mounts on this beautiful casket recall those on Spanish colonial caskets from the late 17th/18th century, such as that sold in these rooms on 2 July 2013, lot 103. The bone inlay, meanwhile, is reminiscent of designs found on Southern Indian examples, such as the cabinet sold in these rooms on 25 May 2005, lot 144.