Lot 1178 Dα

Swabia or Uppper Rhine circa 1520

A carved limewood relief of the Virgin and Child, Swabia or Upper Rhine-Region, circa 1520

The reverse flattened and slightly hollowed out. Minimal remains of former polychromy. Finely carved relief on a flat plinth. The Virgin is shown with Her right foot resting on the tip of a crescent moon with a face. She holds the Christ Child in both hands before Her breast. The nude Child is depicted with legs crossed, facing the viewer and holding a globe on His right knee whilst He grasps for a lappet of the Virgin's gown with His left hand. The work's composition is largely defined by the compact outline of the Virgin's gown, which is only overlapped by Her finely carved hair. The piece derives a richly ornamental quality from the detailed and lively drapery of the robes.
Minor vertical cracks to the right shoulder and right hand of the Virgin. A small loss to the lower left hem of the gown. Height 121 cm, depth 11 cm.