South German or Austrian, 17th century

Overall the condition of the wood is very good. There is some wear to the paint consistent with age. There is some splitting consistent with material and age paricularly down the centre and proper left leg of the figure. At the shoulderblades there are two old restorations.
"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 figure is characteristic of wood carving in South Germany and Austria in the seventeenth century. It can be compared to a figure of an angel by the Zürn family of sculptors from the high altarpiece at the church in Orsingen. The costume with crisp drapery layers and straps crossing at the breast is seen in both figures as well as the tousled treatment to the hair with curls blowing away from the face and up at the forehead.

RELATED LITERATURE
C. Zoege von Manteuffel, Die Waldseer Bildhauer Zürn, exh. cat. Kornhausmuseum, Bad Waldsee, 1998, pp. 32, fig. 22