Vierge à l'Enfant, Vallée de la Meuse ou Rhénanie XIVe siècle

vente Palais d'Egmont, Bruxelles, 6 et 7 décembre 1938, lot 112 (comme Ecole Française. Début du XIVe siècle);
puis par descendance au propriétaire actuel

U. Bergmann, Schnütgen-Museum. Die Holzskulpturen (1000-1400), Cologne, 1989, p. 227.

Very good condition overall. The Virgin's and Christ's nose with an old repair, Virgin's proper right hand and the Child's both hands missing. A small nook to the Virgin's chest, which held probably a hardstone or relic. The Child's left toe tips slightly damaged. Some worming to the top of Virgin's head, and remains of a crown. Fine Oaksculpture with very good carving and reasonable estimate
"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."

Le bel ovale du visage, ouvrant sur un large front et se terminant par un petit menton en pointe, ainsi que les yeux nettement incisés en amandes cernés et surmontés de sourcils en parfait demi-cercle, sont caractéristiques du type physique des Vierges du XIVe siècle dans la Vallée de la Meuse et la Rhénanie. Par son attitude générale et sa physionomie, notre Vierge en Majesté peut  être rapprochée d'une autre légèrement antérieure et conservée à Cologne, au Schnütgen-Museum (inv. n° A14).