A rare Gothic carved oak narrative architectural fragment late 14th century

the crocketted castellated cornice above a boldly carved narrative scene depicting a fantastic beast with rider and monkey with a bird and standing figure of a man in headdress and tabard with 'feathered' sleeves perched on a pillar, the lower section with concave moulded sides carved with a flower head

This is of some weight and has real presence. The carving has a lot of wear, fragmenting and losses throughout and there old splits to the timber. The piece looks like it may have very old fire damage. There are repairs on the left side. The reverse with wedge shaped indented cut and timber filled repairs. An extraordinary object.
"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."

This extraordinary panel depicts the most monstrous of beasts, an animal with the head of a cockerel, a gruesome face to its neck bearing sharpened teeth, a bovine body with cloven feet, it also bears a strange and mysterious rider on its back. It is difficult to assert definitive meaning, perhaps this rider is a representation of the devil. This type of fantastical creature is often referred to as a drollery. A beast created by the woodcarver to horrify or amuse the viewer. There is also a finely carved figure of man positioned on a pedestal - again it is hard to define what he symbolises or who he depicts. His clothing is extravagant and costly, in part this is displayed by his fabulous sleeves. This display of wealth would suggest the representation of a figure of some standing.

Eugéne Viollet-le-Duc, Armes de Guerre, Vol. 5, p. 445, London, 1874, a figure wearing identical costume from the 14th century, to the carved figure in the offered lot, suggesting