FRENCH, BURGUNDY, CIRCA 1450 | Saint Yves with the Rich and the Poor

polychromed walnut

Eduardo Moratilla, Paris
Georges Renand, Paris (acquired from the above in 1967)
Edouard & Jeannine Chapet, Paris (by descent)

In overall fairly good condition with surface dirt, notably in the crevices. The original polychromy is fairly worn with some losses visible at several places, notably to the high points. Wood worming is visible at several places, notably to the lower edge of the base, with some losses to both front corners and to the back of St Yves's seat. Two holes are visible on the upper edge of the seat, probably where a missing element was attached (a canopy?). There is a hole to the top of St Yves's head, probably were a missing element was attached as well? A few vertical splits are visible at some places, consistent with the material. There is a small break to the phylactery held by the Poor. The polychromy appears to have been retouched. A piece of cloth has been glued to the back of St Yves's seat, probably to stabilise the splits. A C14 test has been done on 14 September 2018 by the laboratory CARAA confirming the dating of the wood from 1300 to 1450 AD.
"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."