Spanish, 16th century

There is minor wear to the wood and loss of paint and gilding consistent with age. The lower proper left arm of the saint with the closed book is missing and there is some minor splitting at the underside of this panel consistent with material. There is a large chip to the back of this relief. The panel with the saint with the open book has minor splitting to the top consistent with material and has some worming to its underside and left.
"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."

This pair of reliefs of saints show the influence of the great Spanish master Alonso Berruguete (1488-1561). Expressive faces and gestures give the saints a narrative flair, whilst the drapery figured with foliage and highlighted with gilding is typical of the plastic arts of Spain in this period as painting and sculpture came together.

RELATED LITERATURE
Alonso Berruguete. Guia de la exposicion conmemorativa del IV centenario de su muerte. Cason del Buen Retiro, Madrid, 1961, pp. 63-68, 103, nos. 11-13, 16-17, 28 and 122; S. L. Stratton, Spanish polychrome sculpture 1500-1800 in United States collections, exh. cat. The Spanish Institute, New York, 1993, pp. 165, 167 and 183