Lot 1872 Dα

Flemish circa 1600

A Flemish carved wooden figure of Saint Catherine, circa 1600.

Carved three-quarters in the round, the centre of the reverse summarily worked. With extensive remains of the presumably original polychromy, the cloak and feet overpainted, some retouches to the flesh tones.. The Saint is shown standing and holds a book in her right hand, whilst her left rests on the broken wheel at her feet - symbol of her martyrdom. The figure is turned to the left and posed in an exaggerated contrapposto, the proportions are attenuated and the head delicately formed. Parallels and prototypes for this manner of depiction are to be found in Netherlandish Mannerist prints of around 1600.
Wear with minor losses, the tip of the left foot reattached. Height 85 cm.