Austrian, Upper Inn Valley, late 15th century

Overall the condition of the group is good. There is dirt and overall wear to the surface consistent with age. The original gilding and paint is worn throughout and locally cracked but stable. There are a few losses of paint to the edges of the drapery including around the underside and to the cloth on the proper left side of St. Anne's face. The paint refreshed in several places. Areas of later paint and possible restoration include the noses of Christ and Mary, Christ's proper right arm and a large section on the lower proper left side of the group, where the reverse shows a large section of wood that has been inserted later. There is a knot or wedge visible on the top of St. Anne's head. There are two stable splits to the reverse consistent with material. There is old worming to the reverse which is also consistent with material, particularly towards the lower edges.
"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."

The drapery that falls in intricate folds at the base of the group, the robust Christ Child and the intense oval faces of the Virgin and St. Anne all closely compare with work emanating from Tyrol, and in particular Innsbruck. Note also the treatment of St. Anne's veil, which is worn low down on the forehead.

RELATED LITERATURE
Gotik in Tirol. Malerei und Plastik des Mittelalters, exh. cat. Tiroler Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum, Innsbruck, 1950, p. 33, no. 71; T. Müller, Gotische Skulptur in Tirol, Vienna, 1976, pp. 440-42, nos. 160-61, 164 and 175