A Nasrid or post-Nasrid walnut and ivory-inlaid chest, Spain, 15th/16th century

rectangular with flat hinged lid, decorated in the intarsia technique with inlaid micro-mosaic panels of ivory, ebony, metal and plain and green-dyed bone with geometric shapes and stellar patterns, metal lock plate and hinge, handles on either side, interior lined with fringed purple silk textile

In good condition, parts of lid - notably large walnut wood panels are later replacements, the decoratioin in good condition with minor wear as consistent with age and use, few very minor replacements to wood bands and some of the inlay decoration, the metal key lock pad and hinge rubbed with losses of gilding, the textile on interior worn, with few tears and some losses of fringe, probably of a later date, as viewed.
"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."

Exemplifying the luxurious micromosaic furniture that flourished in Nasrid Granada, this casket was inlaid with polygonal tesserae of wood, ivory, and bone of contrasting colours arranged in geometrical patterns of great intricacy. The technique  has its origins in the Caliphal period and is recorded in both Spain and North Africa. Comparable examples are in the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, Istanbul, inv. no.241, the Museo Arqueologico Nacional, Madrid, inv. no. 72/105 2, the Louvre Museum, Paris, inv. no. AA 20.