Austrian, 18th century

There are restored breaks to Christ's legs and proper left arm, the putto's arms and neck. The putto was reattached, is now slightly loose and is missing both lower legs. There are further restorations to the toes of Christ and the fingers of both his hands. There are a few minor chips including to the nose of Christ and the corners of the base. There is some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. Otherwise the condtion of the alabaster is stable.
"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."

Sculpture representing the present scene, which shows the Dead Christ being lamented by a putto and sometimes further attendants, seems to have been in particular demand in South Germany and Austria in the 18th century. Examples exist in ivory, bronze and stone. Small sculptures in alabaster were a specialty of several sculptors from the circle of Georg Raphael Donner (1693-1741) in Vienna. Likely makers of this finely carved statuette include Jakob Schletterer (1699-1774) and Johann Dorfmeister (1736-1786).

RELATED LITERATURE
R. Berliner, Die Bildwerke in Elfenbein, Knochen, Hirsch- und Steinbockhorn, cat. Bayerischen Nationalmuseums, vol. IV, Augsburg, 1926, p. 1100, no. 530, pl. 232; M. Krapf (ed.), Georg Raphael Donner 1693-1741, exh. cat. Unteres Belvedere, Vienna, 1993, pp. 447-453 and 512-517