Germany, Swabia, early 16th century

There is loss of paint consistent with age and the joints at the waist and underarms are visible and slightly loose. There is some minor splitting of the wood, particularly down the centre of the hat and face, and some worming to the back which has led to some loss of wood at the underside, all consistent with age and material. There is a repair to the edge of the robe at the proper left arm.
"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 present figure's nobleman's cap, long curled hair and ovoid face compare well to Swabian representations of male saints, like the sculpture offered in these rooms on 10 December 1987, lot 228. This sculpture once held towels or a banner on a now missing bar that stretched between the orbs in the figure's hands. Its size is reminiscent of other functional sculpture in South Germany, the chandelier decorations known as Leuchterweibchen being the most obvious other example.