- 412
[Merswin, Rulman.]
Estimate
3,000 - 4,000 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- "A Representation of the Nine Rocks", series of watercolours illustrating the Neunfelsenbuch
- watercolour on paper
comprising eight images of figures on clifftop spaces representing the stages of progress towards religious perfection, watercolour and gouache, images size 330 x 240mm, eight leaves, folio (sheet size 375 x 265mm, with several Strasbourg Arms watermarks including one with the name of Jean Villedary, fl. 1758-1812), probably late eighteenth century, in contemporary drab wrappers, spine worn with six leaves detached, the first and last leaves with tears and adhesive residue, lacking the final "rock"
A rare and highly decorative set of images representing the fourteenth century German mystical text the Neunfelsenbuch - the Book of the Nine Rocks or Cliffs. The text is usually attributed to Rulman Merswin (c.1307-1382), lay leader of the "Friends of God" - a short-lived group inspired by the mystical teachings of the Neoplatonic Theologian Meister Eckhart. The book describes a vision of a mountain with nine precipices: the ascent of the mountain represents stages of spiritual development of increasing difficulty (each rock being therefore more sparsely populated than the last). The first rock, for example, which includes crowned princes, and prelates, depicts those who guard against sin but are without love, whilst the third, which includes flagellants and people dragging crosses, depicts those who focus on spiritual exercises but remain ensnared by the Devil. No text accompanies the present series of highly accomplished but anonymous watercolours, which are evidently English in origin.
A rare and highly decorative set of images representing the fourteenth century German mystical text the Neunfelsenbuch - the Book of the Nine Rocks or Cliffs. The text is usually attributed to Rulman Merswin (c.1307-1382), lay leader of the "Friends of God" - a short-lived group inspired by the mystical teachings of the Neoplatonic Theologian Meister Eckhart. The book describes a vision of a mountain with nine precipices: the ascent of the mountain represents stages of spiritual development of increasing difficulty (each rock being therefore more sparsely populated than the last). The first rock, for example, which includes crowned princes, and prelates, depicts those who guard against sin but are without love, whilst the third, which includes flagellants and people dragging crosses, depicts those who focus on spiritual exercises but remain ensnared by the Devil. No text accompanies the present series of highly accomplished but anonymous watercolours, which are evidently English in origin.
Condition
Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where appropriate
"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."
"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."