German, Upper Rhine, second half 15th century

with two labels on the reverse inscribed respectively: Liste 4 / Ltd 41 and: 14

Dr Johannes Jantzen, Bad Homburg, Germany;
thence by descent to the present owner

Overall the condition of the roundel is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is minor rubbing to the carving at the high points, consistent with handling. There are a few minor chips along the outer edge. There is a small hole below the Virgin's halo on her proper right side. There are a few dark marks on the reverse, which may be consistent with the material.
"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."

The carving of mother-of-pearl roundels with religious subjects flourished in the region of the Upper Rhine in the second half of the 15th century. Similar examples include roundels showing the Nativity of Christ and the Virgin and child in the garden in the Kofler-Truninger collection (S140 and S145). The present example is of particularly fine quality; note the complex folds of drapery in the Virgin's dress.

RELATED LITERATURE
H. Schnitzler, F. Volbach and P. Bloch, Skulpturen. Elfenbein, Perlmutter, Stein, Holz. Europäisches Mittelalter. Sammlung E. und M. Kofler-Truninger, Luzern, vol. 1, Luzern & Stuttgart 1964, p. 37 and figs. S140 & S145