Lot 1339 Dα

Flemish 15th century

A 15th century Flemish carved oak pietà

Carved three-quarters in the round, the reverse flattened and deeply hollowed out. With remains of partially overpainted older polychromy. A large figure of the Virgin seated on a rocky outcrop, designed for a frontal and slightly lowered viewpoint. She holds the body of Her dead Son draped across Her knees, supporting His head with Her right hand and holding His left hand aloft whilst His right arm and legs dangle lifelessly. The expressive quality of this devotional work is particularly accentuated by the way Christ's tortured body and face are presented towards the viewer, as well as the work's impressive sculptural volume.
Some short vertical cracks. The hair, the lower edge, and Christ's left hand with losses due to insect damage. With minor wear. Height 124 cm.