Spanish, late 14th century

inscribed: ihs

Private European collection

Overall, the condition of the copper is good, with some dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The copper is slightly warped, particularly on the lower part of the cross. There is rubbing to the gilding and copper at the high points, particularly to the figures. There is minor greening to the copper in areas, including to the reverse at the bottom of the cross. There are a few small dents to the copper at the edges, including to the points of the cross on the left and right arm, and to the bottom edge of the foliage decoration at the bottom of the cross. The figures and decorative plaques are cast separately and attached with pins, and joints are visible. One of the pins of the plaque on the reverse of the cross at the centre is lost. The figure of Christ, the figure of Mary on the left arm of the cross, the angel at the top, and the plaque bearing the initials 'IHS' are very slightly loose, but stable. There is wear to the champlevé enamel and the gilding throughout. There is particular wear to the gilding at the high points, at the bottom of the cross, to the plaques with the crucified thieves, and to the branches of the cross on the reverse. There are some losses to the enamel, notably to the blue of the Christ in Majesty plaque on the reverse, the red of the title plaque, the blue of the Annunciation and to the background of the plaques with the thieves.
"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 present processional Cross compares closely with another in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (inv. no. 36.134).

RELATED LITERATURE
Songs of Glory: Medieval Art from 900 to 1500, exh. cat. Oklahoma Museum of Art, Oklahoma City, 1985. no. 53, pp. 177-179