East Netherlandish, circa 1500-1520

Sotheby's London, 7 July 1999, lot 46

Overall the condition of the wood is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The figure is likely to have been polychromed, and a tinted lacquer was applied to the surface. The Child's proper right foot is lost. There are losses to the child's proper right fingers and the Virgin's proper left fingers; there is a loss to the tip of the Virgin's proper right foot, and a further loss to the tip of her proper right middle finger. There is stable splitting to the wood consistent with the material, notably a split to the bottom at the front and further splits running down the Virgin's back. There is non-active worming, in particular around the bottom and at the top and back of the crown; some of the holes have been filled. There is a knot to the wood at the back consistent with the material. There is a hole to the back.
"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."

Sculpture from the Eastern Netherlands is recognisable by mannered faces and facial expressions, drooping eyes, deep angular drapery, and elaborate shoes carved to flaunt the artist's skills and in tune with the time's fashions.

RELATED LITERATURE
E.G. Grimme, Europäische Bildwerke vom Mittelalter zum Barock, cat. Suermondt Ludwig Museum, Aachen, Cologne, 1977, no. 43, fig. 38; M. van Vlierden (ed.), Hout- en steensculptuur van Museum Catharijneconvent ca. 1200-1600, Zwolle/ Utrecht, 2004, p. 357