Lot Essay
This exquisite small jewellry casket is exemplerary of Augsburg cabinet making in the 17th century. Although ebony was the preferred veneer for the luxurious works produced by Augsburg craftsmen, ivory was also sometimes used, and perfectly suited for polychrome decoration; as can be seen on the present lot. This small jewellry casket still retains its original paper lining and fitted interior which can be lifted out to reveal a concealed drawer.
A related cabinet probably from the same workshop was sold at Nagel in Stuttgart on the 16th and 17th of February 2012, lot 317 (sold for 671,000 euro). Dr. Dieter Alfter, identifies the workshop of Melchior Küsel as a possible cabinet maker for the Stuttgart cabinet.
A related cabinet probably from the same workshop was sold at Nagel in Stuttgart on the 16th and 17th of February 2012, lot 317 (sold for 671,000 euro). Dr. Dieter Alfter, identifies the workshop of Melchior Küsel as a possible cabinet maker for the Stuttgart cabinet.