South Netherlandish or South German, early 16th century

by repute Louis Wessbecher, United States;
with Edouard Leonardi, Paris, May 1938

There is wear, weathering and some minor dirt to the surface consistent with age and exposure to the elements. There are losses to the right of the lower edge, the heel of the figure on the lower left, and the left hand of the soldier on the top right. The left hand of the soldier on the top left and the arms of the soldier on the top right were reattached. There are several areas of losses and abrasions including to the high points of the drapery and around the crown of thorns of Christ. Four plugs are inserted into the reverse. Otherwise the condition is good. The condition of the modern metal stand is very good. There are some scuffs to the front right corner.
"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."

Adam Kraft carved several sets of limestone Stations of the Cross for Nuremberg, Louvain, and Bamberg with a rich variety of costumes and facial types that compare well to the present relief. The composition here, however, follows Flemish models and is therefore more likely to come from a workshop such as that which produced the retable in the parish church of Bouvines, Hainault.

RELATED LITERATURE
W. Joseph, Die Werke plastischer Kunst im Germanischen Nationalmuseum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, 1910, pp. 28-32, nos. 53 to 58