Austrian, Salzburg, circa 1430-1450

Overall the condition of the figure is good. There is wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is overall wear and craquelure to the paint which has led to several losses, including at the Child's abdomen. The reverse of the figure was painted later and there are a few minor areas of repainting to the front, particularly to the incarnate. There is some possible restoration to the Virgin's proper right hand. There is worming to the reverse which has led to some minor losses at the underside. The base is a later addition. The spikes on the crowns were reattached.
"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."

The present Virgin and Child is an excellent example of a type conceived in Bohemia under French influence at the end of the 14th century. Known as the Schöne Madonnen, they are one of the most recognisable groups of sculpture from the International Gothic.

The Madonnas are characterised by their graceful S-shaped stance and the elaborate drapery cascading from around their arms. Typical for the Salzburg school is the robust and voluminous representation of the drapery, with its regular zig-zag folds.

RELATED LITERATURE
E.G. Grimme, Deutsche Madonnen, Cologne, 1966, p. 108, no. 20; K. Woisetschläger, Gotik in der Steiermark, exh. cat. Stift St. Lambrecht, Graz, 1978, pp. 228-29, 233-34 and 236-37, nos. 194, 199 and 203