France second half 14th century - A French carved ivory figure of the Virgin enthroned, second half 14th century - image-1
France second half 14th century - A French carved ivory figure of the Virgin enthroned, second half 14th century - image-2
France second half 14th century - A French carved ivory figure of the Virgin enthroned, second half 14th century - image-1France second half 14th century - A French carved ivory figure of the Virgin enthroned, second half 14th century - image-2

Lot 2117 Dα

France second half 14th century - A French carved ivory figure of the Virgin enthroned, second half 14th century

Auction 1160 - overview Cologne
14.11.2020, 11:00 - Old Masters
Estimate: 80.000 € - 100.000 €

France second half 14th century

A French carved ivory figure of the Virgin enthroned, second half 14th century

The reverse flattened. The hair, crown, globe, belt, and robe hems with remnants of older, presumably original gilding and minor remains of polychromy. This finely carved, pierced figure depicts the Virgin seated on a simple throne supporting the standing, clothed figure of the Christ Child on Her left knee with Her left hand. Christ holds a globe in both hands, whilst the Madonna holds a book in Her right. The drapery of the Virgin's girded gown is carefully observed, and the striking facial features are also finely rendered.
This masterpiece of ivory carving was once among the highlights of the important collection of Dr Richard von Schnitzler (1855-1938) in Cologne. Schnitzler was both a collector and patron of art as well as long-time chairman of the Cologne Kunstverein and the Circle of Friends of the Wallraf-Richartz-Museum.
In good overall condition with only minor wear. Drilled hole between the Virgin and Child. With a wooden dowel to the underside. Height 15.6 cm.

Provenance

Collection of E. Zerner, Frankfurt/Main. - His sale by P. Cassirer und H. Helbing, Berlin 1924, lot 18. - Collection of Dr. Richard von Schnitzler (1855-1938), Cologne. - By descent in family ownership to the present day.

Literature

Otto H. Förster: Die Sammlung Dr. Richard von Schnitzler, Munich 1931, cat. no. 156, pl. LXXII.

Exhibitions

Kölnischer Kunstverein, 1927, no. 237.