Southern Italian, early 14th century and earlier

Overall the condition of the mable is good. There is overall wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age and handling including incrustation to the right side. There are naturally occurring veins running from bottom left to top right. There is rust-coloured discolouration in the marble consistent with material. The top of the relief is lost which extends into the proper right arm of Christ. There are minor losses due to rubbing including to the faces off all three figures.
"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 static composition, the long form of Christ's perizonium and large nimbus point to a date for this powerful scene of the Crucifixion at the beginning of the 14th century. The echoes of Roman costume in the figure of St John might suggest that it was made in southern Italy, around Naples or Puglia.  However, the distinctive leaf decoration which runs around to the blind side of the relief seems to indicate that this large slab of marble was reused in the 14th century and this leaf decoration probably dates to the 6th or 7th century when the marble may have formed part of a screen or enclosure.