South Netherlandish, probably 16th century

with an old paper label printed: 67096/6

The property of a lady, Christie's London, 7 July 1998, lot 91

Overall the condition of the wood is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is relatively minor non-active worming to the figure throguhout, including to the face. The polychromy may be refreshed. There is splitting to the wood consistent with material particularly to the face and the chest. The feet and base are carved separately. There is particular wear to the Magi's pendant.
"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 present figure is likely to stem from an ensemble arranged on pillars much like the Magi in the Church of St. Andrew in Ochsenfurt from the late 15th century and the Jesuit church in Constance from circa 1585 (see Pinder, op.cit., and Die Renaissance..., op.cit.).

Stylistically the figure presents a conundrum. The execution of the shoes and the general composition compare best to late Gothic carvings such as the Ochsenfurt Balthazar and another in the Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum in Aachen (inv. no. SK 276). However, the arabesques with which the drapery's borders are decorated suggest a later date.

RELATED LITERATURE
W. Pinder, Mittelalterliche Plastik Würzburgs, Würzburg, 1911, pl. LIV; Die Renaissance im deutschen Südwesten, exh. cat. Badisches Landesmuseum Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, 1986, pp. 558-559, no. I 21