French, Lorraine, circa 1330-1350

private collection, Ghent

Overall the condition of the wood is good with wear and some dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is wear to the polychromy throughout, including some larger losses to the Virgin's chest, the proper left side of the her mantle, and the knees of both figures. The polychromy may possibly have been refreshed in a few areas, including the faces. There are a few losses, mostly due to past worming, including to the spikes of the crown at the back, to the Virgin's back, to her drapery at the bottom of her legs, and larger losses to the back of the throne. There is also a loss to the base of the throne at the front. There is stable splitting to the wood, consistent with the material, notably to the Virgin's face, her chest, her proper left side at the bottom, the Christ child's back and the proper left side of the Virgin's back. There is a possible loss to the attribute in the Virgin's 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."

This tender group of the Virgin and Child is closely related to a stone group in the Bonnefantenmuseum in Maastricht. 

RELATED LITERATURE
J.A. Schmoll gen. Eisenwerth, Die Lothringische Skulptur des 14. Jahrhunderts, Fulda, 2005, nos 189 and 356