An Ottoman gem-set and hardstone mounted casket, Turkey, 16th-17th century

of octagonal form resting on four raised scalloped feet with a hinged faceted domed cover, the silver gilt body mounted with jade and hardstone plaques, inlaid with semi-precious stones including rubies and emeralds with collared floral settings and silver-gilt scrolling tendrils, the cover with an openwork jade plaque in the form of a floral stellar medallion decorated with further collared stones and foliate tendrils

In good overall condition, some losses to stones, patination and rubbings to silver-gilt, as viewed.
"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 stat.mes nt made by Replica Shoes '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."

The technique of using floral collared gems linked by a grid of inlaid metal tendrils was a distinctive characteristic of the Ottoman court. From the sixteenth century onwards the Ottomans decorated all manner of objects including vessels, jewellery and weapons with gem-encrusted hardstones. (See Rogers and Ward 1988 , nos. 63 and 71). A dagger and saddle set with similar gem-set hardstone plaques to that seen on the present casket is marked with the tughra of Murad IV (1623-40) (see Kürkman 1996 p.136-137).

According to Al-Biruni: "It is said that jade or one variety of it is called the victory stone and for this reason the Turks decorated their swords, saddles and belts with it, desirous of gaining victory over their contestants and opponents. Others emulate them in this respect by fashioning from it seals and knife handle." (Lentz and Lowry 1989, p.221). Jade (yashm) was prized by the Turkmen tribes for its prophylactic as well as its visual qualities. It was believed to detect poison, cure eye disease and stomach illness, and to protect against natural calamities such as earthquakes and lightning. Its putative magical, talismanic attributes extended to the battle field.