An English Alabaster Relief of the Head of Saint John the Baptist, 15th Century, Nottingham

centered by the saint's bearded head on a dish upheld by  angels above and below, the Agnus Dei in the lower center, upon later velvet covered wood board.

Wear and losses throughout including parts of figures in upper section. Losses to angel's wings and dog's head, old breaks in upper corners. Traces of paint. Wear to velvet covering on stand.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

RELATED LITERATURE

F. Cheetham, English Medieval Alabasters..., Oxford, 1984, no. 245

Cheetham (op.cit) discusses the existence of six variations on the theme of the head of St. John the Baptist known to have been carved at Nottingham in the 15th century; the present relief is 'type d'. Compare an example in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London in Cheetham (op.cit., no. 245)