Indo-Portuguese, 17th century

Overall the condition of the ivory is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The figure would originally have surmounted a larger ivory group, now disassociated. Christ's proper right foot is replaced and a joint is visible. His legs may be carved separately (though probably not His head and proper right arm). The head and front of the sheep are reattached and part of the proper left front leg is lost. There is a lost element to Christ's proper left shoulder, probably a sheep (a remnant survives and there is a small hole). There is a small loss to Christ's proper right elbow and general small nicks and scratches to the surface throughout, particularly the underside. There is stable splitting to the ivory consistent with the material and age. General wear to the polychromy. Two drilled holes to the underside for mounting. There is non-active woodworm and wear to the base throughout.
"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 figure of the young Christ Child would originally have been the main figure of an ensemble allegorical of Jesus as the Fountain of Life and surmounting the Nativity scene within a rockwork base.  For other representations see M.M. Estella Marcos, Ivories from the Far Eastern Provinces of Portugal and Spain, pp. 248-257, nos. 135-139.