Charles II Linen and Silk Beadwork Box, Beadwork, circa 1680

Property from the Estates of Dudley & Constance Godfrey
Charles II Linen and Silk Beadwork Box
Beadwork circa 1680

depicting allegories of the Cardinal and Theological virtues; the top with Charity flanked by two children; the front with Temperance holding vessels and Prudence holding a serpent; the sides with Fortitude holding columns and blindfolded Justice with a balance and sword; the back panel showing Hope with an anchor and Faith reading a Bible; all surrounded by richly varied flora and fauna; the interior with compartments, drawers and secret drawers, red-painted and decorated with punched gold borders and hand-coloured engravings of hunting scenes; on a support covered in green felt and red velevet (worn)
Height 7 in. by Width 12 1/4 in. by Depth 9 1/4 in.

Condition Report:
In conserved condition, and still fragile with scattered losses and replacements to beads and losses and re-working to faces and hands. Linen and silk ground with discolouration and wear consistent with age. Losses, wear and oxidation to gold thread ribbon borders. New losses to proper left side of Prudence’s blue dress, please ask for condition images as this could benefit from restorative attention. Front panel detached and will need to be re-affixed. Interior with scattered discolouration and losses to lining, and mirror panels with foxing and losses to silvering.

For further information on the condition of this lot, please contact the department at: 212-606-7130 or Americana@Sothebys.com

Provenance:
Leslie R. Maas