λ A SINHALESE TORTOISESHELL LIDDED BOX MADE FOR THE WESTERN MARKET
Sri Lanka, mid to late 19th century

With an oval profile and four cusped edges, resting on a flat plain base, made of three tortoiseshell single-carved elements pinned onto each other, with Western silver mounts and fittings, the hinged lid with a Western parcel-gilt monogram in the centre reading C.A., 6cm x 21.5cm x 15cm.

Tortoiseshell boxes such as ours were prized possessions in Western countries and were considered the ultimate exotica piece to have in every prestigious interior. Often used as jewellery caskets, these boxes were especially popular among Western women, who would often have them fitted with silver locks to safely store their heirlooms. A similar Sinhalese 19th-century exotica piece, a tortoiseshell bag, was successfully sold in our last April sale, 16 April 2021, lot 163.

This item may require Export or CITES licences in order to leave the UK or the European Union. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that lots have the relevant licences before shipping.

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