French, probably Loire Valley, 12th century

together with an English, circa 15th century limestone niche figure of a bishop

Birds: there are losses, wear, weathering and dirt to the surface consistent with age and placement outside. There are a few chips including a recent nick to the lower right side. Bishop: there is overall wear, weathering and some dirt to the surface consistent with age. There are several losses throughout.
"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. 30

RELATED LITERATURE
P. Williamson, Catalogue of Romanesque sculpture, London, 1983, pp. 14-15, cat. 1; W. Cahn and L. Seidel, Romansque Sculpture in American Collections, Vol. 1, New York, 1979, p. 53, fig. 39; A. Gardner, A handbook of English medieval sculpture, Cambridge, 1937, pp. 58-59, fig. 53