Circle of Hans Klocker (active 1478-1500) South Tyrolean, circa 1490-1500

Overall the condition of the wood is good, with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is wear to the polychromy, including craquelure and some losses, notably to the Virgin's proper right shoulder, the high points of the drapery and to the child's legs and orb. The polychromy has probably been refreshed in areas, including the faces. The Virgin's sceptre and the cross on the orb are probably replacements. The Virgin's fingers on the proper left hand and the child's fingers on the proper right hand are reattached or restored. There is minor stable splitting to the wood consistent with the material, including to the base and the top of the Virgin's head. here is minor evidence of past worming, visible at the base and the back. There are a few chips and minor losses. There is a hole to the top of the Virgin's head.
"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 Austrian sculptor Hans Klocker, who worked primarily at Brixen in South Tyrol, directed a large workshop which produced elaborate altarpieces for major churches in the region. The drooping eyelids exhibited here are typical of his influential style. Compare the Virgin and Child by Klocker in the Church of St Valentine in Villnöss (op. cit., pl. XXXII).

RELATED LITERATURE
T. Müller, Gotische Skulptur in Tirol, Bozen, 1976