English, Nottingham School, circa 1400-1430

The angel Gabriel depicted flying above the Virgin and holds a scroll inscribed AVE GRATIA PLENA DNS TECVM, traces of gilding and polychrome, contained in later oak frame

Dr Cedric Lane-Roberts, Mill House Tewin, Hertfordshire in 1952, sold in a sale of the contents, 10th/11th May 1960, Morris & Duvall Auctioneers, lot 394, £360

F. Cheetham, Alabaster Images of Medieval England (Woodbridge, 2003) p. 75, no. 6 illus. fig. 16 

In overall good condition with wear to the gilding. With minor losses and overall wear consistent with age. Minor crack at the border of the left side and at the top right hand side corner. Circular mark visible beneath the angel. The later canopy fitted on the underside with a light-fitting. Traces of gilding. Distressed velvet curtains hung from the canopy.
"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."

Cheetham lists this relief (Type B) as one of eight of comparable iconography of which the others are all in museum collections or still in situ in a church. The Virgin, her face turned towards Gabriel, is kneeling next to a predella with an open book whilst to her right stands a vase with a lily. The relief is distinguished by a close attention to detail, evidence of superior craftsmanship. When the relief was in the Lane-Roberts collection it was suggested that the alabaster was mined at Chellaston Quarry, Nottinghamshire.