French, Île de France, first quarter 16th century

with illegible graffiti below the scene on the left

The relief is a fragment from a larger piece, and therefore is roughly hewn at the sides, with areas of loss to the edges and corners throughout. There are losses to the carvings, notably to three of the heads and several arms in the scene on the left, Christ's face and arms at the centre, three heads and the head and torso of the body in the scene on the right, and losses to two shafts of the columns separating the scenes. Two of the columns are incised with crosses, which may be a later addition. There are numerous chips and scratches to the base at the front. Otherwise the condition is stable, with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The metal stand is in good condition, with minor dirt and wear.
"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."

RELATED LITERATURE
Sculpture Française II - Renaissance et temps modernes, vol. 2, cat. Musée du Louvre, Paris, 1998, pp. 674-675