Italian, Emilia or Le Marche, early 16th century

European private collection

Much original polychromy survives, though in a fragmentary state. It is possible that some of the polychromy may have been refreshed. Much of the base is lost (possibly due to worming) and the base is a little unstable. The column/ tree is partially reconstructed at the back and the nose is restored. There are some losses to the column/ tree at the top and to the ropes binding the Saint's hands. There are holes in the Saint's body for lost arrows. There is minor splitting to the wood consistent with material. Otherwise the condition is stable.
"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 naturalistic classicism of Andrea Mantegna also had a profound infuence on sculptors in the Veneto and the underlying provinces. The present figure is particularly reminiscent of Mantegna's Saint Sebastian, now in the Louvre (inv. no. RF 1766). The classicising torso and sharply delineated curls are also found in two similar statues thought to have been made by a follower of Domenico Indivini (circa 1445-1502) from San Severino, which were were included in the exhibition Rinascimento scolpito. Maestri del legno tra Marche e Umbria at the Convento di San Dominico, Camerino in 2006 (Casciaro, op. cit., pp. 208-213, nos. 43-44).

RELATED LITERATURE
R. Casciaro, Rinascimento scolpito. Maestri del legno tra Marche e Umbria, exh. cat. Convento di San Dominico, Camerino, Milan, 2006, pp. 208-213, nos. 43-44