French, 15th century

her cloak carved with intricate deep folds swept up over her robe, traces of paint

This Virgin and Child is in good stable condition. Due to its age, however, it exhibits wear, chips, losses and restorations. There are repaired breaks to the Virgin's neck and the body of the Child which extends into the Virgin's form. The reverse is carved. This group preserves traces of old paint particularly on the reverse and in the Virgin's hair.
"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 statement made by Sotheby'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 Child gently holding His mother's hand, the intricate folds to the drapery with deep undercutting on the proper right side, and the tender glance all contribute to the delicate charm, freshness and realism of this group.  These details together with the treatment to the physiognomy echo a style seen in sculpture from a Dijon workshop; for an example of this treatment note the late fifteenth century Virgin and Child in the Eglise de Biarne in the Jura illustrated by Boccador.  

RELATED LITERATURE
J. Boccador, Statuaire Médiévale en France de 1400 à 1530 (1974) fig. 38