South German, early 16th century St Catherine of Alexandria

polychromed and gilt wood

There is dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is wear to the polychromy throughout, particularly to the reverse. There is splitting to the wood throughout, including a large stable split in the Saint's upper back, into which has been inserted a metal hook. A thin piece of wood at the back of the Saint's head is loose, due to splitting. A large rectangular section to the reverse, from the ground to the Saint's upper back, has been cut out and reattached. A new thin piece of wood has been inserted to the left of this section. This construction is stable but there is slight movement. There appears to have been some restoration to and around this construction with the addition of a filler or adhesive substance in some areas. There is a round wood plug in the rectangular section at the top. The Saint's right thumb and one of the finials of her coronet have been lost. There are further losses to some of the other finials of her coronet. There is worming throughout, including at the back of the Virgin's head and at her upper back. The coronet appears to have been separately carved and there is a slight fissure between the Saint's head and the coronet at the back.
"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."