LOT 0299

Medieval Carved Wooden Panel with Kneeling Angels Supporting the Cross

SOUTH NETHERLANDS, 1500-1520 A.D.

16 in. (6.4 kg total, 40.7 cm high).

A finely carved late Gothic group depicting two kneeling angels supporting the Cross, executed in walnut with a deep, time-worn patina, the angels, shown in reverent adoration, kneeling upon a naturalistic ground, their flowing drapery falling in deep, angular folds; each figure gently steadying the cross with expressive, delicately carved hands; on the reverse apertures indicating the former attachment of separately carved wings, now lost; the recessed compartments within the cross retaining traces of red pigment, suggesting that it originally housed relics or fragments of the True Cross; accompanied by a fabric-covered display stand.

Acquired on the European art market.

This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13380-258014.

Cf. sculpture of angels with a cross, sculpted by Maes in Bruges between 1425 and 1435 A.D., in Museo del Prado, Madrid, inv. no.E0093-E00711, for a similar image.

The composition is devotional in nature and was likely conceived as part of a larger altarpiece or reliquary ensemble dedicated to the Adoration or Exaltation of the Holy Cross. The sculptor’s sensitive modelling and rhythmic treatment of drapery reflect the refined workmanship characteristic of the Southern Netherlands during the early sixteenth century.