Italian, Naples, 18th century

Overall the condition of the wood is very good, with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The group is made in sections and elements are a little loose. Some joints are visible, in particular where the figures slot into the ground. Christ's proper left index finger is lost. There is minor splitting to the wood, consistent with the material, in particular at the Virgin's proper left arm. There is particular splitting and joints to the back of St John. The paint appears to be largely original but may have been refreshed in areas. There are some small losses to the paint. There are a few small splits to the edges of the drapery.
"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."

With its elaborately crinkled drapery with angular folds, mostly visible in Saint John's and the Virgin's mantles, the present group shows clearly its Neapolitan origin. Perhaps most similar to the work of Neapolitan sculptor Nicola Fumo (1647-1725), particularly the Saint John in the present group can be compared to a Saint John the Evangelist, attributed to Fumo, which is in the church of the same name in Lecce (op. cit. no. 53). Note also the similarities in the billowing drapery, seen on an Assumption of the Virgin, now in the Diocesan Museum in the Duomo in Lecce (op. cit. no. 48).

RELATED LITERATURE
R. Casciaro and A. Cassiono (ed.) Sculture di età barocca tra Terra d'Otranto, Napoli e la Spagna, exh. cat. Lecce, Chiesa San Francesco della Scarpa, Lecce, 2007, p. 260-280