English, Nottingham, late 15th century

Overall the condition of the alabaster is good. There is some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age, including some minor scratching. The polychromy has worn off, except in the crevices. There is some natuarally occurring veining, particularly at the left side and at the right corner. There are a few losses, including to the top edge and the top of the right angel's censer and to the top of his proper left wing. Parts of the top edge have been reattached. There is minor wear to the velvet lined wood frame, and there are a few metal screws and a metal mount to the reverse. The frame is made in sections.
"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 Resurrection is among the most popular images produced by the English alabaster carving workshops in the 15th century. Few surviving examples, however, display such an accomplished sense of depth, anatomy and execution of the clothes and attributes as here. Judging by Cheetham's extensive list of carvings (op.cit.) with this subject, this example is also one of the largest of its kind.

RELATED LITERATURE
F. Cheetham, Alabaster Images of Medieval England, Woodbridge, 2003, pp. 134-141, figs. 74-83