Saint Agatha, illuminated miniature from a manuscript choirbook on vellum

a cutting, 124 mm. by 101 mm., a very large initial 'O' (possibly the antiphon "O quam pulchra" for the feast of Saint Agatha, 5 February), a full-length figure of a young woman in a grey-blue dress with a darker blue cloak standing on a tiled floor holding an open book and a breast on long pair of pliers, a hanging tapestry behind, all within a large initial decorated with very elaborate scrolling leafy designs in green, on a burnished gold ground, cut to shape, in a wooden frame

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing where appropriate.
"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."

Agatha of Sicily, having dedicated her virginity to God, was tortured and martyred during the persecutions of Decius after rejecting the advances of the Roman prefect Quintianus.  Owing to the similar shape of her attribute she is now the patron saint of bell ringers.