An English carved stone corbel probably 14th century or earlier

the single block of limestone carved with a head in high relief with a hat and collar

Wear throughout this piece. With traces of what appears to some very old consolidating paint. Nose chipped. Atmospheric.
"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."

For another stone corbel carved in the same way and dated circa 1250 from the Transept at Westminster Abbey see Arthur Gardner, English Medieval Sculpture, Cambridge, 1937, fig. 5. Gardner writes that the figure at Westminster is either a portrait of John Gloucester the master mason or of John of St. Albans the actual sculptor.

It has been suggested that the presence of small fossilized sea creature inclusions indicates that this piece could originate from East Anglia.