circle of Germain Pilon (1525-1590) Franco-Flemish, late 16th century

the drapery falling with intricate folds, the border of the Virgin's mantle with detailed tooling, thick walled casts with rich brown patina

Overall the condition of both bronzes is very good with some minor wear to the patina consistent with age. There is a visible casting plug to the back of the Virgin's proper left shoulder and a few minor casting flaws in the veil. There are a few minor nicks to the surface of both bronzes.
"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 treatment to the drapery, in particular to the Virgin, the deep veil and hands folded across her chest appear to have been inspired by Germain Pilon's seated figure of the mourning Virgin started in 1586 and now in St. Paul de Louis. The expansive left hand gesture of St. John appears to be derived from Pilon's St. Francis as illustrated by Bresc-Bautier. This pair of bronzes may also be stylistically compared with the Virgin and St. John in the Abott Guggenheim Collection illustrated by Camins.

RELATED LITERATURE:
L.Camins, Renaissance and Baroque Bronzes, Abbott Guggenheim Collection, San Francisco, 1988, no.43; G. Bresc Bautier, 'Observations sur la Vierge de douleur et quelques œuvres de Germain Pilon au Musée du Louvre', in Germain Pilon et les sculpteurs de la Renaissance francaise, actes du colloque, Musée du Louvre Paris 1990, fig. 58, pp. 218-229