Flemish, circa 1700

Overall the condition of the terracotta is excellent. There is some minor wear and dirt consistent with age. There are some small firing cracks and visible joints. There is a small area of restoration to the knee of the proper right knee and proper left foot.
"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 pose and handling of the present Mary Magdalen is remarkably close to marble of the same subject by Hiëronymus Du Quesnoy the Younger. Du Quesnoy's marble was once known as the most beautiful sculpture on view in the Park of Brussels but has since been moved to the Koninklijke Museum voor Schone Kunsten in the same city (no. 3734). A terracotta version is in a private collection in Brussels.

RELATED LITERATURE
De beeldhouwkunst in de eeuw van Rubens, exh. cat. Koninklijke Musea voor Schone Kunsten, Brussels, 1977, pp. 89-91, nos. 55-6