A GOLD AND ENAMEL SPYGLASS, LONDON, CIRCA 1775 | A gold and enamel spyglass, London, circa 1775

cylindrical, the barrel with three oval chocolate brown medallions painted en plein en camaïeu with figures of three Muses, on a ground of wriggling translucent blue and opaque white stripes within interlaced borders, unmarked

Losses to green enamel along the borders on the base and the collar, otherwise in good order
"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 figures are based on contemporary engraved gems. The female leaning on a column was, according to Raspe, first engraved by Luigi Pichler as a muse but later William Tassie replaced the column with an anchor as he had been asked by a client for a figure of Hope and this second version became better known (R.E. Raspe, A Descriptive Catalogue of a General Collection of Ancient and Modern Engraved Gems, Cameos as well as Intaglios … cast by James Tassie, London, 1791, no. 8103). The same figure appeared on a scent bottle of similar date and origin, Christie's, 17 March 1987, lot 185.