Late follower of Ignaz Elhafen (1658-1715), Austrian, 19th century

a label on the back inscribed Wittelsbacher Ausgleichsfonds Inv.S. n^o. 62, a stamp inscribed 132 and inscribed in black ink N^r 35. Maijs and indistinctly N^o 4567; with a velvet lined glazed wood frame

Von Wittelsbach family, Bavaria
Sold through the Wittelsbacher Ausgleichsfonds on 2 September 1927

Overall the condition of the ivory is good. There is some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There are two fissures running along the top right corner and one running along the top of the horse through the centre. There are a few minor nicks to the edge of the relief.
"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."

This large relief is inspired by Ignaz Elhafen's Conversion of St. Paul from the Kremsmünster Stiftsammlungen, which is illustrated in Christian Theuerkauff's 1968 article (op.cit.). It also compares well to Elhafen's battle scenes in the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum (R 4659 and 4675).

RELATED LITERATURE
C. Theuerkauff , 'Der Helffenbeinarbeiter Ignaz Elhafen' in Wiener Jahrbuch für Kunstgeschichte, vol.21, Vienna, 1968, fig.86; R. Berliner, Kataloge des Bayerischen Nationalmuseums, Band XIII, 4, 1926, pp. 91, nos. 414-415