South Netherlandish, probably Hainaut, circa 1500

Overall the condition of the wood is good. There is some minor wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is some minor, stable splitting to the surface consistent with material. There is minor worming throughout the object which has led to some losses around the base which have then been replaced (both vorners, two section on the front edge). There are minor losses to the hats of both figures, the tips of the fingers on the proper right hand of Christ and the little fingers of the Virgin. Both hands of the Virgin and the proper left hand of Christ 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."

Compare the elaborate drapery, execution of the hair and compact proportioning of the figures with the retable in the parish church of Boussu. A possible graphic source for the present group is Martin Schongauer's engraving of the same subject (Bartsch 71).

RELATED LITERATURE
J. de Borchgrave d'Altena and J. Mambour, Retables en bois du Hainaut, Charleroi, 1968, pp. 16-19