Circle of Walter Pompe (1703-1777) Southern Netherlandish, Antwerp, third quarter 18th century

Den Wolsack, Antwerp; 
private collection, Belgium, since at least the early 20th century

Overall the condition of the terracotta is good with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The surface is covered in a layer of slip which may potentially conceal condition points. There is a small loss to the tip of Christ's proper left index finger, and there are minor chips to his fingers and toes. Both tips of the crescent moon have been reattached. There are further reattachments to Christ's proper right arm and hand, and possibly to his proper left hand. There are firing cracks, consistent with the original technique of manufacture, to Christ's proper left foot and to the Virgin's proper left wrist. There is a small chip to a part of the Virgin's drapery on the proper left side at the leg.
"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 serene Immaculata bears a striking resemblance to terracotta versions of the same subject by Walter Pompe, in particular the Virgin and Child dated 1761 in Tongerlo (op. cit., p. 106, no. 42). Its provenance from an historic Antwerp house, built in 1772, substantiates the presumed authorship of a sculptor based in the Flemish city.

RELATED LITERATURE
Walter Pompe, Beeldhouwer 1703-1777, exh. cat. Museum voor Religieuze Kunst, Uden, 1979