Attributed to Giovanni Antonio Pilacorte (1455-1531), Italian, Udine, circa 1500

Overall the condition of the relief is good. There is dirt, wear and weathering to the surface consistent with age. The tip and hilt of the sword and the crossbar of the scales are replaced. There are a few losses, particularly to the edges of the relief, the centre of the pilaster decoration and the devil's knee and face.
"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."

Giovanni Antonio Pilacorte became well-versed in Renaissance sculpture as an assistant to Agostino di Duccio at the Tempio Malatestiano in Rimini and whilst working with Bellano and the Lombardi in the Veneto. The sculptor's work is nevertheless distinctly inspired by Trecento art as well. The present relief, for example, is closely related to the work of Giovanni di Balduccio and Bonino di Campione but its decorated frame and detailed armor are certainly taken from contemporary sculpture. The position of the hands, wings and head are nearly identical to Pilacorte's half-length St. Michael in the parish church of Vito d'Asio. The flattened, waving strands of hair are equally comparable and so is the composition of attributes like the small souls in the scales and the clawing Lucifer at his feet.

Pilacorte carved several similar downward-looking full-length figures. Three comparable saints can be seen on the altar frontal in the crypt of the cathedral at Spilimbergo.

RELATED LITERATURE
G. Bergamini, Giovanni Antonio Pilacorte Lapicida, Udine, 1970, figs. 170 and 196