English, Nottingham, 15th century

with an old paper label to the reverse inscribed in pencil: N184 

private collection, Germany

Overall the condition of the alabaster is good considering the age of the relief. There is minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is wear to the polychromy and gilding throughout. There are a number of losses: the ascendant Christ's proper left foot, the Virgin's hands, a loss to the top right figure's hair on his proper left side, and the tip of the centre-right figure's nose. The top left corner of the relief is lost. There are a number of smaller chips and abrasions, including to some of the edges of the drapery and to the edges of the relief.
"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."

This fine Nottingham alabaster panel shows the Ascension of Jesus Christ to Heaven. Only the bottom of the Saviour's drapes and his feet are represented, the rest of his body has entered Heaven, which is demarcated by a cloud of triangular forms. Below, the Virgin Mary kneels in prayer, whilst, opposite her, the beardless St. John the Evangelist points upwards with his right hand and holds a palm in his left hand. Further Saints fill the remaining portions of the scene, including St. Jude, who kneels behind St. John and holds his emblem, the boat.

The present relief follows essentially the same composition as another in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London (inv. no. A144-1946). As in the present alabaster, the ground is painted green and is adorned with a 'daisy pattern', a typical colour scheme for Nottingham alabasters. The present panel is very well preserved, and retains much of its original polychromy.