German, Rhenish, second half 15th century

inscribed: S358 in blue chalk and with remnants of an old label to the reverse

Overall the condition of the wood is good. There is wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There are losses to the paint throughout and several unstable areas around the edges and underside. There are naturally occurring stable splits throughout, some of which have caused some minor losses around the underside. There is some minor worming consistent with material including a small area which has been patched with wax in the crevice to the right of the head. The little finger of the proper left hand has been reattached. There is a small hole on the top of the head which would have held a halo and there is a large iron nail to the reverse for mounting.
"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 execution of the drapery, with its contrast between deep crumpled folds and undulating edges, compares well to the group with the Doubting Thomas from the Alsace region, exhibited in the Badisches Landesmuseum Karlsruhe (inv. no. 64/141). Compare also with the Virgin Annunciate formerly in the Schwartz collection illustrated by Grimme (op.cit.) and attributed to a Strasbourg master of circa 1470.

RELATED LITERATURE
E. Zimmermann, Die mittelalterlichen Bildwerke in Holz, Stein, Ton und Bronze mit ausgewählten Beispielen der Bauskulptur, cat. Badisches Landesmuseum, Karlsruhe, 1985, pp.195-98, no.118; E.G. Grimme, Deutsche Madonnen, Cologne, 1966, p.113, no. 29