French, Limoges, circa 1220-1240

Jacqueline Boccador, Paris

Overall the condition of the bookcover is very good. There is some minor wear consistent with age. There is some wear to the gilding. There are some losses to the enamel, particularly to the edges. There are some minor scratches and two incised lines to the reverse of the relief. There is a small nick to one of Christ's inset eyes.
"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."

Thirteenth century Limoges enamel bookcovers of the crucifixion were simplified to relate the story clearly and powerfully.  The present plaque, like a similar bookcover sold in the Dormeuil collection, Sotheby's, Paris, 2007, no 18, succeeds with marked elegance. The composition is centered by a figure of the crowned Christ as an applique on the cross and flanked in the lower two thirds of the panel by the Virgin on his right and Saint John the Evangelist on his left. The colourful, stylised terrain upon which they stand represents the Calvary.  Floating in the top third of the panel are two angels divided by the hand of God. Few extant book covers illustrating the crucifixion display the figure of Christ as an applique. Notable are those formerly in the Thomas Flannery Collection, sold Sotheby's London 1 December 1983, lot 36 and that formerly in the Giannalisa Feltrinelli collection, Geneva.

RELATED LITERATURE
L'Oeuvre de Limoges, Emaux limousins du Moyen Age, exh. cat., New York/ Paris, 1996, p. 280, no. 88