Lot 27
  • 27

Southern German, Bavaria, circa 1520

Estimate
18,000 - 25,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Female Saint
  • gilt and polychromed limewood
  • Southern German, Bavaria, circa 1520

Condition

Overall the condition of the wood is good, with wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. Both hands are lost. There are a few further losses and abrasions, notably to the front at the bottom left, and to some of the strands of hair, and to the edges of the drapery. There is some stable splitting to the wood consistent with the material, in particular to the drapery around the proper left leg. There is evidence of past worming, notably to the cloak on the far proper left side, around the bottom, and to the back. There is wear to the polychromy throughout, including some flaking, and craquelure at the back. There appears to be a loss to the back section (a seat?), and the hollowed back is polychromed and gilt.
"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."

Catalogue Note

The volumous, animated, drapes and sense of weight around the legs of this charming seated Saint are characteristic of Bavarian wood sculpture circa 1520. In particular, the sculpture recalls the work of Hans Leinberger, see, for example, his St. Jacob from circa 1525 in the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum, Munich (inv. no. 15/114). Note the wonderful retroussé nose and trailing tresses of hair.