Southern Netherlandish, probably Malines, first half 17th century

Hubert Brenninkmeyer, Brussels

Overall the condition of the group is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few losses, including to the tips of the fingers of the Virgin's proper right hand, and to the Child's proper right arm, proper right foot, and thumb of the proper left hand. The Virgin's proper right forearm and upper arm have been carved separately, and joints are visible. The forearm may have been reattached. The sceptre in Her proper right hand is reattached and some glue residue is visible in the palm of the hand. There is minor stable splitting to the wood, consistent with the material. The silver mounts are in good condition, with some minor oxidation visible in areas. There are minor losses to the gilding in a few areas. There are very minor losses to the tips of some of the rays, notably at the top. The crowns are slightly loose but stable. Most of the enamelling and some of the glass(?) stones of the Virgin's crown are lost, and there is wear also to the Child's crown. The later stand is in good condition with minor wear to the lining consistent with age.
"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 present group is a particularly fine example of a type that was popular in the Southern Netherlands during the early 17th century. A comparison with the boxwood Virgin and Child signed by Maria Faydherbe (1587–1643) argues for a possible origin in Malines.

RELATED LITERATURE
La sculpture au siècle de Rubens dans les Pays-Bas méridionaux et la pincipauté de Liège, exh. cat. Musee d'art ancient, Brussels, 1977, pp. 116-118, no. 80