Attributed to Simon Troger (1683-1768) Austrian, Tyrol, 18th century

There are a few restoration and losses to the figure: the proper left arm has been reattached and has losses to its sleeve and there are restorations to the sleeve of the other arm, the proper right trouserleg and the toes of the proper left foot. There are a few further, minor losses to the edges of the drapery. There is a small, oval wood replacement inserted to the hat. There is wear to the surface and dirt to the crevices consistent with age.
"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."

Small scale ivory and wood sculptures like the present example were popularized in the eighteenth century by the Austrian sculptor Simon Troger. His figures contrast the polished ivory of the flesh and the rough textures of the wood costumes. Troger spent time in the workshops of Schmiedecker in Merano, Nikolaus Moll in Innsbruck and Andreas Faistenberger in Munich. Maximilian III Joseph, Prince Elector of Bavaria acquired several of Troger's works for display in the gallery at Schleißheim Castle.  

The open mouth with its individually defined teeth, the flowing and deeply carved beard, prominent bone structure, and eyes which clearly articulate both the pupil and coloured iris are all characteristic of Troger's work.

RELATED LITERATURE
R. Eikelmann, Bayerisches Nationalmuseum Handbook of the art and cultural history colletions, Munich, 2002, p. 226; E. Philippovich, Elfenbein: Ein Handbuch für Sammler und Liebhaber, Brunswick, 1961, rev. Munich, 1982, pp. 321-4, 383; E. Philippovich, 'Simon Troger und andere Elfeneinkunstler aus Tirol', Schlern Schriften, 216, 1961, pp. 5-11,Tafel I-VIII; C. Theuerkauff, Die Bildwerke in Elfenbein des 16.-19. Jahrhunderts. Die Bildwerke der Skulpturengalerie Berlin, Berlin, 1986, pp. 267-73