GERMAN, SWABIA, CIRCA 1490 | Female Saint, probably Saint Elizabeth

Overall the condition of the wood is good, with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. The proper right hand is lost. There is also a loss to the proper right side of the terrasse, and further minor losses to the terrasse. There is some evidence of past worming, notably around the terrasse and at the back. It appears that the piece may have been cut down slightly at the bottom due to past worming. The front right corner of the terrasse is carved separately. There is some minor stable splitting to the wood, consistent with the material, including to the legs. There is wear to the gilding and polychromy throughout, including flaking. Particular areas of loss to the gilding, silvering and polychromy include the top of the headdress, the high points of the drapery on the proper left side, and some of the terrasse; the white gesso ground is exposed in areas. A piece of wood is attached to the hollowed back, probably for stability. There is a modern metal loop at 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."

The restrained drapery and charming features of the present figure are reminiscent of works produced in and around Ulm towards the end of the 15th century. An identification of the Saint as Elizabeth of Thuringia can be proposed based on the attribute of a bread basket, a commonly depicted reference to her charitable work for the poor.

RELATED LITERATURE
C. Lichte and H. Meurer (eds.), Die mittelalterlichen Skulpturen, 2. Stein- und Holzskulpturen 1400-1530: Ulm und südliches Schwaben, cat. Landesmuseum Württemberg, Stuttgart, 2007, figs. 71, 74 and 75