Italian, probably Siena, early 16th century

Overall the condition of the wood is good. There is dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The painted surface was probably refreshed, certainly around the face and hands. It has craquelure throughout leading to some flaking which has exposed the white gesso ground, particularly along the lower edge. There is some minor, stable splitting to the wood consistent with material including to the proper right cheek and forehead and the proper left side of the head. There are a few worm holes. A radio carbon dating measurement report by RadioCarbon Dating dated 28 March 2013 (RCD-8038) dates the wood between 1470 and 1640.
"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."

Sienese woodcarving reached its height when Francesco di Valdambrino was active in the city around 1400. He pioneered a Gothic style imbued with elegance and subdued beauty. His figures are characterised by their subtle movement beneath simple vertical folds of drapery. He often carved figures in the round, which would be placed in narrative ensembles, such as the two Annunciations in the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam and in the Bode Museum (op.cit., Leeuwenberg). Valdambrino’s work possesses a timelessness, an influence felt well into the Renaissance. A female saint illustrated by Bacchi (op.cit.) is likely to stem from the same workshop.

RELATED LITERATURE
J. Leeuwenberg and W. Halsema-Kubes, Beeldhouwkunst in het Rijksmuseum, cat. Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, The Hague/ Amsterdam, 1973, pp. 343-344, no. 574; A. Bacchi (ed.), Dalla Bibbia di Corradino a Jacopo della Quercia. Sculture e miniature italiane del Medioevo e del Rinascimento, exh. cat. Galleria Nella Longari, Milan, 1997, pp. 106-107, no. 39

A radio carbon dating measurement report by RadioCarbon Dating dated 28 March 2013 (RCD-8038) dates the wood between 1470 and 1640.