Lot 1641 Dα

Probably Southern Netherlands around 1530/1540

A wood relief with the Circumcision of Christ, presumably Southern Netherlands, around 1530/1540

Carved three-quarters in the round and partially free standing. The reverse flattened. Minute remains of former polychromy. This depiction from the life of the Virgin Mary, which appears to originate from an altarpiece, depicts the circumcision of Christ with Mary on the left and the High Priest on the right. The fine quality of the carving is particularly evident in the Virgin's fashionable attire, the Priest's glasses and the attention to detail within the work. It is an expressive example of the high quality of artistic production achieved in the carving workshops of cities such as Utrecht and Antwerp in the first half of the 16th century.
Strips of wood have been fitted to the wedge-shaped base, and a block of wood to the reverse. Vertical hairline cracks. Minimal wear throughout. 37 x 31 x 7.5 cm.