Lot 329
  • 329

A South Netherlandish Boxwood figure of Saint Peter, By Francois van Loo, First Half 17th Century

Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 USD
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Description

with ebonized pupils, holding a book under his left arm, formerly with keys in in his right hand, his left foot resting on two books, the integrally carved cylindrical base carved St PETRUS and signed underneath with the monogram FVL, together with a pair of German boxwood figures of Saint John the Evangelist and Saint John the Baptist, late 16th century.  Three pieces.

Condition

Peter: Loss to part of implement in his right hand. Very minor losses and chips including one corner of Bible. Very minor losses to some curls in hair and beard. John the Baptist: Some age cracks and small losses throughout including some curls of hair, fingertips on right hand, and left forleg of lamb. Two age cracks to base and small losses to eges of drapery on back. Lower part of right arm replaced. John the Evangelist: Overall standard wear and some losses throughout including some curls, several fingers on right hand, and forefinger on left hand. Top of chalice lacking. His left hand and wrist re-attached. Losses to toes on left foot. Some remainders of old varnish and polychromy.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

RELATED LITERATURE

Die Bildwerke des Deutschen Museums, Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, 1923-30, v. 4, pp. 109-114

The Malines sculptor Francois van Loo (also van Loy, Verloy), maĆ®tre in 1607 and active until at least 1654, is known for a series of figures of Christ and the apostles which probably decorated the predella of an altar.  The present Saint Peter appears to be of that series, as it bears the FVL monogram and closely resembles the facial features, smooth drapery style, and cylindrical base with the carved name in high relief seen on the figures of Christ, Saint James the Greater, and Saint Philip in Berlin (Bildwerke, op. cit., nos. 7713, 7714, 7715).  Another from the series, Saint Andrew, is in the Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest.