French, Paris, first half 14th century

with a label numbered: 1306 in ink to the reverse

Hermann Baer, London

Overall the condition of the ivory is good. There is some wear and minor dirt to the surface consistent with age and handling, including some rubbing to the high points. There are a few minor hairline splits on the surface consistent with material. There are two slots to the reverse where the hinges have been.
"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 Mass of St Gregory -in which Christ as the Man of Sorrow appeared to the Pope in response to his prayers- is an exceedingly rare subject on Gothic ivories. The scholarly monks in the top register are equally unusual and may refer to the Order to which the owner or carver of the present relief belonged. The raised border to the reverse of the relief held the wax used for writing. The panel also shows evidence that it was originally hinged and it is probable that it was part of a devotional booklet as in the Passion Booklet in the Victoria and Albert Museum (inv. no. 11.1872).

RELATED LITERATURE
P. Barnet (ed.), Images in ivory. Precious objects of the Gothic age, exhib. cat. The Detroit Institute of the Arts, Princeton, 1997, pp. 193-197, no. 40