North Italian or Tyrol, circa 1500

Josef Albert Amann Jr., Munich, until 1919;
and thence by family descent

Overall the condition of the wood is good with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is non-active worming to the wood throughout, particularly at the back and at the bottom of the skirt. There are losses at the back due to worming, and some unstable areas of wormed wood. There is stable splitting to the wood consistent with the material, particularly in the mantle falling over the skirt at the front. Sections of the Virgin's proper left arm, and much of Her proper right arm and side are carved separately and stable open joints are visible. The base is probably later and a section on the right side is lost. There are some losses to the drapery, including below the Virgin's proper left elbow. Christ's proper right hand is restored and two fingers are lost. There is wear to the polychromy throughout, incuding craquelure, minor flaking and minor losses, including to the faces. There is a large hole in the Virgin's head at the back, and a later wood support across Her back. The Virgin's proper left little finger is lost.
"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."

F. Wolter, "Bayerische Plastik des XV. und XVI. Jahrhunderts. Beitrag zur Forschung und Geschichte", Festschrift des Münchener Altertums-Vereins zur Erinnerung an das 50jährige Jubiläum, Munich, 1914, pp. 29-98; J. Langwieser, Joseph Albert Amann (1832-1902). Leben und Werk eines Gynäkologen in der zweiten Hälfte des 19. Jahrhunderts, Munich, 2006, pp. 22-73