English, Nottingham, second half 15th century

Overall, the condition of the alabaster is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is a loss to the top right corner, both hands of the centre left apostle are lost, and the proper right hand of the centre right apostle is lost. There is also a small loss to the censer held by the middle apostle above the Virgin. There are traces of original polychromy and gilding. There appears to be a layer of wax or a lacquer to the surface, which gives it a shiny appearance in areas. There are a few small abrasions, in particular to the drapery.
"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."

Cheetham notes that the Dormition 'is a very rare subject in English alabaster' (1984, op. cit., p. 198, no. 125). This beautiful example is an important addition to the list of only four reliefs with the subject recorded by Cheetham in his 2003 publication Alabaster Images of Medieval England. The present relief is compositionally close to the example in the Victoria and Albert Museum (inv. no. A9-1946), though in reverse and with the surviving bed canopy. The Virgin lies prostrate on her death bed, surrounded by the twelve Apostles who, according to legend, were miraculously transported to her side. Note the charming attributes held by several of the apostles, including the censer being swung in the hands of one apostle, and the palm leaf held by another, who can be identified as the beardless St John the Evangelist. Cheetham recalls a legend that the Virgin was presented with the palm by an angel who had gathered it in Paradise and instructed her that it should be carried ahead of her bier.

RELATED LITERATURE
F. Cheetham, English Medieval Alabaster: With a catalogue of the collection in the Victoria and Albert Museum, Oxford, pp. 113-115; F. Cheetham, Alabaster Images of Medieval England, Woodbridge, 2003, pp. 46-48; R. Marks and P. Williamson, Gothic Art for England 1400-1547, exh. cat. Victoria and Albert Museum, London, pp. 390-396, nos. 275-283