Netherlandish, Malines, second half 16th century

Hubert Brenninkmeyer, Brussels

Overall the condition of the alabasters is good, with some wear and dirt to the surfaces consistent with age. There is a loss to the Virgin's proper right shoulder, and a smaller loss to Christ's proper left shoulder. Both heads have been reattached. There are a few minor chips, including to the truncation of the Virgin at the bottom. There is dirt throughout and minor rubbing, particularly at the high points. There is wear to the background material, including a few minor surface losses. There is also some wear to the wood, including losses to the paintwork. A joint is visible running vertically across the medallion with the Virgin. There is a small loss to the wood just below the Virgin. There are modern metal hooks for hanging on the reverses.
"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."

These rare medallions compare to a diptych with a pair of relief busts in the Musées royaux d'art et d'histoire, Brussels (inv. no. AI.3).

RELATED LITERATURE
A. Huysmans, La Sculpture des Pays-Bas méridionaux et de la Principauté de Liège. XVe et XVIe siècles, cat. Musée royaux d'Art et d'Histoire, Brussels, pp. 242-243, no. 132