Netherlandish, Lower Rhine, circa 1520

with a label inscribed: ANTWERPSCHE PROPAGANDA / tentoonstelling Schilderkunst / ... September ... on the underside, and remnants of a wax seal to the reverse

Museum van Stolk, Haarlem, before 1912;
its sale, Frederik Muller, the Hague, 8-9 May 1928, lot 108;
with Jan Dirven, Eindhoven;
with Kunstzalen A. Vecht, Amsterdam;
with Jan Beekhuizen, Amsterdam

Antwerpen, Antwerpsche Propagandaweken, Tentoonstelling van Kunstwerken uit Antwerpsche Verzamelingen, Tweede Reeks, August/September 1935

Overall the condition of the wood is good, with wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is a later varnish to the surface. The proper right hand is carved separately. There is stable splitting to the wood consistent with the material, notably open splits to the mitre, to the proper left sleeve and around the bottom and to the back. There is a metal bracket to the back, probably to stabilise the splits. A section of the lapels is carved separately. There are a few minor losses due to past worming, including to the fold of drapery at the front, and to the proper left middle finger.
"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 finely carved multiple folds and elaborate multi-tiered crown from this figure of St. Peter are typical of Netherlandish Lower Rhine early 16th-century sculpture; compare with the crown from the oak relief with the Virgin and Child from the Henhove collection, Brussels, sold on 27 October 1983, lot 1492.