SOUTHERN GERMAN, FIRST HALF 17TH CENTURY | Saint Sebastian

Private collection, Germany

Overall the condition of the wood is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few small losses, notably to four toes on the proper right foot, and to three fingers, the thumb and some of the palm of the proper left hand. There is minor stable splitting to the wood, consistent with the material, notably to the tree trunk, where there is a wood insert to an open split. There are very minor further splits to the nose, the proper left shoulder and torso, and the proper right elbow. There are a few small holes where arrows may have broken off, including to the neck, the proper right arm, and the proper right calf. There are some minor specks of dirt to the torso.
"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."

This impressively carved Saint Sebastian finds a compelling comparison in a Saint Bartholomew in the Württembergisches Landesmuseum, Stuttgart (inv. no. 1964-24), which is possibly by the same hand and may have been its pendant.

RELATED LITERATURE
H. Beck and B. Decker (eds.), Dürers Verwandlung in der Skulptur zwischen Renaissance und Barock, exh. cat. Liebieghaus, Frankfurt am Main, 1981, pp. 263-264, no. 167