North French, probably Ile-de-France, late 13th century

private collection, Frankfurt, until the 1930s;
by descent to a private collection, United Kingdom

There are several losses due to extensive old worming and now stable splitting consistent with material, particularly along the figure's left side, the collar, and the lower edge. The hands are lost. There are remnants of polychromy to the head and collar, in the left hand sleeve, and to the drapery at the front.
"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 pleasant smiling face and arched eyebrows framed with curled hair are among the signature traits of the Northern French High Gothic. Compare the faces of two standing angels in the Louvre (inv. nos. RF 1435 and RF 1663). The truncation of a fragmentary figure of a bishop saint with similar facial features dated to the early 14th-century in the Louvre (inv. no. RF4440) may explain why the present figure is joined at the chest as well.

RELATED LITERATURE
F. Baron, Sculpture française. I. Moyen âge, cat. Musée du Louvre, Paris, pp. 105-106 and 125