SMALL TRAVEL CHEST In molded, carved and polychromed wood, of architectural form, with hinges and wrought-iron lock, opening with a top flap, the body with engaged pilasters encircled with stylized foliage and rosettes, on a rectangular gadrooned base decorated with rectangular reserves. Probably Loire Valley, late 15th, early 16th century. Height 41.5; Width 41; Depth 35 cm (accidental damage)

Composed of several subsidiaries, the Drouot Group is a major player in the art market. Hôtel Drouot, located in the heart of Paris, has been the world's largest public auction center since 1852. 15 salerooms are available to more than 70 auction houses. The emulation generated by an annual offer of 230,000 artworks from 21 major specialities - from Antiquity to street art - attracts some 3,000 visitors every day. The Group's digital platform, Drouot.com, offers digital sales - Live auctions (live broadcasting and participation in auctions), Online-only auctions (dematerialised auctions) and Buy Now sales (sales of lots at fixed prices). Nearly 2 million items are offered annually by 600 auction houses. Auction news is reported every week in La Gazette Drouot, the leading weekly magazine for the art market and culture published by Auctionspress.