Small ivory carving, 14th century, Paris. - Ivory






Has 20 years of experience trading curios, including 15 years with a leading French dealer.
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Description from the seller
Middle part of a multi-paneled altarpiece (tabernacle). Under a canopy, decorated on three sides with a Gothic pointed arch, Mary sits on a low bench. She wears a crown and is cloaked in a long mantle that falls in graceful folds over her knees. Holding a flower in her right hand, she supports the child with her left hand. The child stands upright on her left knee and holds an apple in his hand. Such tabernacles originally served as household or travel altarpieces and were especially popular at the end of the 13th century and in the 14th century. The artist's great mastery is evident mainly in the fact that this object is made from a single piece of ivory, and he has almost detached the group of Mary and Child from the back wall. Additionally, the very elegant right hand of Mary, the faces, and the fluid drapery reveal great talent.
CITES declaration present.
Provenance
From the collection of Jan Dirven, Antwerp.
Photos are part of the description, so please review the photos carefully to prevent inconvenience. If in doubt, ask questions via the auction master before bidding.
Seller's Story
Middle part of a multi-paneled altarpiece (tabernacle). Under a canopy, decorated on three sides with a Gothic pointed arch, Mary sits on a low bench. She wears a crown and is cloaked in a long mantle that falls in graceful folds over her knees. Holding a flower in her right hand, she supports the child with her left hand. The child stands upright on her left knee and holds an apple in his hand. Such tabernacles originally served as household or travel altarpieces and were especially popular at the end of the 13th century and in the 14th century. The artist's great mastery is evident mainly in the fact that this object is made from a single piece of ivory, and he has almost detached the group of Mary and Child from the back wall. Additionally, the very elegant right hand of Mary, the faces, and the fluid drapery reveal great talent.
CITES declaration present.
Provenance
From the collection of Jan Dirven, Antwerp.
Photos are part of the description, so please review the photos carefully to prevent inconvenience. If in doubt, ask questions via the auction master before bidding.
