French, Perhaps Meuse Valley, 13th/14th century

with a metal plaque to the reverse inscribed: M.D.

The church of Vézelise, Meurthe et Moselle, by repute

Wear and some losses throughout. Age cracks include: through proper right side of face and up through forehead, through drapery between her knees, around the base and the throne. Losses include: her proper right forearm, His feet, His proper left hand. Some cracks and losses with fill to back of Child's head. Her proper left hand abraded and with losses. There appears to have been some worming and the piece has also been affected by humidity and therefore some areas on base and back of figure, in particular, are softer. Remainders of polychromy throughout. Otherwise minor restorations.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The present group belongs to a type of sculpture known as Sedes Sapientiae (the Throne of Wisdom), popular in Europe during the 12th and 13th centuries. The subject shows the Virgin’s role as principal mediator between God and man in the Incarnation, the moment that Christ became human. In this sculpture, the Virgin is seated frontally and hieratically on a throne and she becomes the throne to the Christ Child as he perches on her lap, symbolizing her role in giving birth not only to the human Jesus, but also to the divine Christ.