Netherlands, probably Limburg, circa 1520

inscribed in pen: P/ 508

Overall the condition of the wood is good. The piece has been stripped of its original polychromy, though a few traces of original polychromy survive deep in the folds of the drapery. There is some stable splitting consistent with the material. The bottom of the sculpture appears to have been cut away. The front of the Virgin's proper right foot is lost and Christ's big toe on his proper right foot is lost. There is evidence of past worming to the reverse and the bottom of the sculpture at the reverse has been hollowed out. There is a hole in the back lower down and there are a few small holes in the top of the head, to which a crown or halo may have been fitted. There is a stable knot in the wood in the drapery at the front, consistent with the material.
"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."

RELATED LITERATURE
C. Ceulemans, R. Didier and J. Gerits, Laat-gotische beeldsnijkunst uit Limburg en grensland, exh. cat. Provinciaal Museum voor Religieuze Kunst Begijnhof, St Truiden, 1990, p. 25, no. 35