French, 13th/early 14th century

numbered: 7461 and L.1945; together with an English, 13th century, limestone tongue-poking beast

There are losses, wear, weathering and dirt to the surface consistent with age and placement outside to both heads. The tongue-poker has a hole for mounting to its forehead.
"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."

LITERATURE
Forty Medieval Carvings from the Collection of Richard Wiseman, cat.no. 17

RELATED LITERATURE
C. Grössinger, The world upside-down, London, 1997, p. 87, fig. 123; R. Sheridan and A. Ross, Grotesques and gargoyles. Paganism in the Medieval Church, London, 1975, p. 56, fig. 4