An Austrian wood figure of Saint Michael, circle of the Master of the Kefermarkt Altar (active 1473-1510), circa 1480, probably Upper Danube

From the Estate of Vera Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach, sold Parke-Bernet, New York, May 9, 1968, lot 78

M. H. Schwartz (ed.), European Sculpture from the Abbott Guggenheim Collection, New York, 2008, no. 107, pp. 196-197
Sonderausstellungen des Kunsthistorishen Museums in der Neuen Burg, Vienna, 1940, p.14, no. 11

Losses and restorations throughout. Age cracks. Some chipping. With later brown pigment on areas of surface. Worming throughout, much now filled. Several patches of wood added to base and long swaths of drapery on both sides. The sword blade, quillons, and several fingers are later. Stable. Well carved.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The Master of the Kefermarkt altar takes his name from the famous high altarpiece of the pilgrimage church in Kefermarkt, Austria, and is possibly identifiable as Martin Kriechbaum, of the German family of painters and sculptors, though none of his documented works seem to survive.  The carving of the hands, style of drapery, and the rendering of the face seen in the present sculpture are comparable to the style of the Kefermarkt Altar and associated works.