rectangular, the sides chased in baroque taste with putti amid acanthus leaf scrolls, the cover chased in relief with a scene of Venus and Mars beside classical ruins and with cupid and drawn bow to the top left corner, all within a border of pendant fruit clusters and auricular grotesque masks, on four grotesque foliate scroll masks

Part of a set, sold Christie's, Geneva, 14 November 1978, lot 79

Christie's, London, 15 July 1998, lot 264

Michael Clayton, Christie's Pictorial History of English and American Silver, London, 1985, p.79

The makers mark clearly stamped once only to interior base. The cover panel with two small casting splits at the bottom left and right corners. Two of the feet with casting cracks to the scroll work. Probably later gilded. Light wear to highest points. Otherwise good condition.
"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."