French, Limoges, first third 13th century

inscribed with the christogram: IHS

Overall the condition of the corpus is stable and consistent with age and handling. The cross is somewhat warped and there are losses to the enamel around the outer edge as a consequence. The gilding is rubbed throughout. There are some minor nicks to the edges, particularly at the corners of the cross and the crown. Christ is loose from the cross at the feet. There are two holes for mounting on each of the terminals. There are areas of scratching and two "tremolierungsstichen" to the reverse.
"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."

Paul Thoby  (op.cit.) classed Limoges crucifixes of the present type as type C: Christ is crowned, his eyes are rendered with drops of enamel, and his body sways more than in earlier examples. After the 1230s Christ's head hangs and his body droops on such Limoges crosses. A comparable cross is in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (inv. no. 17.190.332).

RELATED LITERATURE
P. Thoby, Les croix limousins de la fin du XII. siècle au début du XIV siècle, Paris, 1953, nos. 58-59