Circle of Hubert Gerhard (1540-1620) South German, early 17th century

with two labels numbered: 259 and 637 on the underside

Overall the condition of the bronze is good, with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age and handling. There is minor rubbing to the lacquer patina at the high points and edges. There are a few areas with very small lacunae to the bronze, including to the proper right arm and the abdomen. There is rubbing to the figure of Christ on the cross. There are a few nicks, including to the proper right hand.
"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 unusually high quality and the stylistic features of this plaque in high relief suggest that it was made by a highly skilled bronze sculptor active in Southern Germany during the late Renaissance. Although Hubert Gerhard is not known to have produced small reliefs of this kind, Saint Jerome's striking similarity to Gerhard's figures, such as the Lazarus in his relief for the tomb of Dr Thomas Mermann, places the present plaque within his circle. A version of the composition in boxwood attributed to the circle of Christoph Daniel Schenk (1633-1691) was offered at Sotheby's New York on 8 June 2007 as lot 458 alongside a pendant with Mary Magdalene.

RELATED LITERATURE
D. Diemer, Hubert Gerhard und Carlo di Cesare del Palagio. Bronzeplastiker der Spätrenaissance, Berlin, 2004