German, Upper Rhine, second half of the 15th century

Overall the condition of both the frame and the mother-of-pearl is very good. There is some minor wear and dirt consistent with age. There is a small chip and repair to the right of the mother-of-pearl roundel.
"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 carving of mother-of-pearl roundels with religious subjects flourished in the region of the Upper Rhine in the second half of the 15th century. Similar examples include roundels showing the Nativity of Christ and the Virgin and child in the garden in the Kofler-Truninger collection (S140 and S145). As in the present example, the composition and drapery style are heavily influenced by the engravings of the anonymous Master ES, who was active in the Upper Rhine region around the middle of the 15th century.

RELATED LITERATURE
H. Schnitzler, F. Volbach and P. Bloch, Skulpturen. Elfenbein, Perlmutter, Stein, Holz. Europäisches Mittelalter. Sammlung E. und M. Kofler-Truninger, Luzern, vol. 1, Luzern & Stuttgart 1964, p. 37 and figs. S140 & S145