A rare, late-17th century, Continental tortoishell, fitted casket
10046
The mounts silver and the handle cut-steel. The lid with its original mirror, and lined with red silk. The interior with a removable box containing small compartments, lined with red silk. The carcass lined with wall paper and a painting of a man, woman and child within a landscape scene inset in reverse in the bottom reflecting the image in the mirror. The ratchet replaced. Possibly Antwerp, or Dutch, third quarter of the 17th century.
17th Century
1675
Tortoishell, Silver, glass plate
Flemish, Antwerp
It is interesting to speculate what would have been stored in this casket with the use of tortoishell and the mirror plate, both of which were expensive items, suggesting fine possessions. This casket would probably have been used to stored jewels, letters or other items of value such as gloves and small items of clothing. The painting at the bottom is, most likely, a personal connection to an owner from some time in its history and it is a charming, individual feature.
