English, Nottingham School, circa 1470-1490

The alabaster has calcified due to water damage. The relief has been glued to a perspex type backing through which on the back it is evident that the relief has been in sections and reassembled . There are losses and cracks as is evident in the catalogue photograph and the top right finial of God the Father's crown was detached upon arrival and is separate (at the time of the catalogue photograph it was temporarily placed on the crown there.)
"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 Virgin enthroned and flanked by two angels at her sides is crowned by the Trinity shown as three separate individuals: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Ghost. The present relief which has been adversely affected by damp conditions still shows the deep carving and fine detail which is present in English alabasters of superior worksmanship.  For comparable examples of the Coronation of the Virgin see Cheetham, English Medieval alabasters, Oxford, 1984, nos 140 to 146.