15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Period: 15th Century and Earlier

Mezcala Pre-Columbian Three Headed Stone Figure

Located in Astoria, NY

Mezcala Pre-Columbian Three Headed Stone Figure, Guerrera, Mexico, mounted on ebonized wood base. Sculpture: 4.25" H x 4.5" W x 1.5" D; overall: 5.75" H x 5.5" W x 2.5" D. Provenance...

Category

Mexican Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Stone

Mezcala Pre-Columbian Three Headed Stone Figure

$950

Pre-Columbian Standing Male Nude Figure

Located in Astoria, NY

Pre-Columbian Standing Male Nude Figure, probably Aztec, black burnished terracotta, mounted on ebonized wood base. 14.5" H x 7" W x 4.5" D. Provenance: From an Upper East Side Colle...

Category

Central American Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Terracotta

Pre-Columbian Standing Male Nude Figure

$850

Large Medieval 15th Century Religious Hand Carved Marble Sculpture Group

Located in Nottingham, GB

A large and rare second half of 15th century religious marble sculpture group, hand carved, mounted on bronze base for display. This sculpture group depicts the death of Saint Joseph...

Category

French Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Marble

Large Medieval 15th Century Religious Hand Carved Marble Sculpture Group

$62,071

12th Century Rare Romanesque Wood Sculpture of the Virgin Mary

Located in Vero Beach, FL

12th century extremely rare romanesque wood sculpture of the Virgin Mary. Magnificent wood hand carved sculpture of the Virgin Mary holding a book to her chest. It is an extremely rare survivor of the 12th century. The style is European, possibly French or English. This statue is a testimony to beautiful religious art from about 1150. A truly rare Romanesque sculpture...

Category

English Medieval Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Stone

12th Century Rare Romanesque Wood Sculpture of the Virgin Mary

$14,000

Ancient Egyptian Monumental Temple Sphinxes

Located in London, GB

A pair of monumental limestone sphinxes of Pharaoh Nectanebo I, from the processional avenue of the Serapeum of Memphis, 30th Dynasty, circa 379 - 360 BC. The sphinxes of the Serapeum have captivated travellers since Roman times. However, despite their significance, they are conspicuously absent from the collections of most major museums. Indeed, their existence in private hands is so improbable, and their imitations so numerous, that the present sphinxes were assumed to be modern copies throughout their recent ownership history. Finally recognised and conserved after an extraordinary chance discovery at a garden furniture sale...

Category

Egyptian Egyptian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Limestone

Ancient Egyptian Monumental Temple Sphinxes

$875,000

Rare Antique Gothic Corpus Christi 1480 -1530

Located in Doha, QA

An extraordinary and museum-worthy 15th century Gothic Corpus Christi, masterfully hand-carved in wood with exceptional anatomical detail and partially polychromed in white and royal...

Category

German Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Rare Antique Gothic Corpus Christi 1480 -1530

$81,000

Important Sedes Sapientiae Virgin and Child also called "Throne of Wisdom"

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

IMPORTANT SEDES SAPIENTIAE VIRGIN AND CHILD ALSO CALLED « THRONE OF WISDOM » ORIGIN: FRANCE, BURGUNDY PERIOD: EARLY 13th CENTURY Height : 75 cm Len...

Category

Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Oak

Important Sedes Sapientiae Virgin and Child also called "Throne of Wisdom"

$101,511

Important 14th Century Polychrome Limestone Virgin from Lorraine

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Provenance : - Kunsthaus Heinrich Hahn, Frankfurt am Main, sale 16, June 17, 1930, lot 16. - Sotheby's, Amsterdam, Feb. 26, 2006, lot 201. HISTORIC Located between Moselle valley and Meuse valley, framed by the Vosges Mountains on the south side and the duchy of Luxembourg on the north side, the duchy of Lorraine is the result of several partitions. It starts with the 9th century when the Carolingian empire is divided, with Lothar 1st inheriting Lotharingia. In 959 this territory was in turn divided in two; Lower and Upper Lotharingia, the latter being the forebear of the duchy of Lorraine. This duchy was under the rule of the Holy Roman Germanic Empire until 1736 when it was absorbed by the kingdom of France. All along its history the duchy of Lorraine has found itself in the midst of many conflicts. Alliances and feuds marking European history were always particularly sensible in Lorraine where instability was frequent. Because of its geographic position the duchy of Lorraine was also an artistic crossroad. Hence the duchy of Lorraine becomes from the 13th century onwards an important artistic centre where a particular type of Virgin and Child appears. According to professor J. A. Schmoll the characteristics of Lorraine sculpture burgeon around 1280-1300 in the Aube region. It presents “vigorous volumes, restrained movements, rare but solemn gestures and a strong interiorised and stern expression”. Those Virgins look similar with a wide forehead, a shield- or oval-shaped face, large neck, small lips and a cleft chin. This model is particularly in favour during the 13th century because of the revival for Marial worship and for the theme of the Virgin and Child. It bears witness to a new religious sensibility with a more intimate vision of religious practice. DESCRIPTION The important 14th century Virgin we present to you is one of the most beautiful examples of sculptural art from Eastern France, with her fascinating distant gaze. Her contrapposto posture is induced by the weight of the child she carries high on her left side. The child has a chubby face framed by blond hair with well defined curls and he wears a long red V-collared tunic from which emerge his feet. The fabric is animated by long folds. The position of the right foot turned to the back is a detail we can notice on several Virgins from Lorraine. He holds a bird that seems to be pecking his thumb. “The bird /held by the child in his hands/ has been read as a reference to an episode from Christ’s childhood when he has moulded sparrows with clay before giving them life. It appears in the apocryphal gospel of Pseudo-Matthew (ch. 27) and later in the Quran (III, 43, v. 110). However the iconography seems to be more influenced by the concept of Redemption or of Eucharist, the bird symbolising the soul of the Christian about to be redeemed or revitalised.” Mary wears a long dress with two rock crystal cabochons remaining from the original five. She is covered by a red cloak enriched with old-gold motifs draped as an apron falling in long pleats along her left hip. The relief treatment and the volume of the cloak developing a network of concentric pleats contrast with the the flat pleating of her dress. They nevertheless suggest the curve of her bent right leg. She wears a floret crown securing a short thin veil carved in very low relief. From it emerges her blond curled hair characteristic of the 13th century. The large face with almond-shaped eyes, straight nose, small lips and cleft chin casts its gaze afar in a fashion typical of 13th century Virgins. In her right hand she holds a lily flower. In a very refined manner the artist has carved a band on her right ring-finger. In the back, carefully sculpted, spreads the minutely detailed short veil. COMPARATIVE STUDIES This sculpture of great quality presents obvious similarities with Virgins from Lorraine, designated by William Forsythe...

Category

French Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Limestone

Important 14th Century Polychrome Limestone Virgin from Lorraine

$143,309

Polychrome carved wood Virgin and Child from the 15th Century

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

POLYCHROME CARVED WOOD VIRGIN AND CHILD FROM THE 15TH CENTURY ORIGIN: SOUTH GERMANY, SWABIA, NUREMBERG REGION PERIOD: 15th CENTURY Height: 94,6cm Width : 28 cm Depth : 18 cm Lime wood Original Polychromy Good state of conservation From 1430 onwards, sculpture underwent a profound stylistic renewal which continued until 1530, the so-called late Gothic period. In the Germanic countries, original sculptures flourished in an expressive and sensitive vein. This renewal was inspired by the art of Nicholas of Leiden, who was active in Strasbourg in the 1460's. His style broke with the refined and delicate art of the international Gothic style in force throughout Europe around 1400. The figures became more authentic and realistic. The bodies became denser. Clothes are animated by deep, broken folds, the fabrics are heavy and have a great decorative value. In addition, the polychromy is intended to be illusionistic. The painting makes it possible to restore the texture of the materials, the richness of the textiles and the natural skin tone of the characters. The dissemination of images through engraving and the great mobility of the artists led to the success of this style, which conquered the Upper Rhine, Swabian, Tyrolean and Franconian regions, contributing to the formation of a common stylistic identity in these regions. The economic boom in the flourishing German cities was conducive to the development of original production. Attracted by this prosperity, numerous workshops were set up in order to meet the orders of religious communities, the Church and the laity, including a clientele of middle-class rockers. This precious Virgin and Child is depicted standing on a crescent moon, her head encircled by a crown of tall flowers. Her long wavy hair spreads over her shoulders, framing her beautiful oval face. Under fine eyebrows drawn with a brushstroke, her almond-shaped, slightly drooping eyes look at the Child with infinite softness. She is dressed in a long red dress with a rounded neckline, belted under the chest. The heavy fabric of her dress spreads out in broken folds at her feet. On her shoulders she wears a golden cloak. The drapery has deep folds. She holds out her right hand while she holds the Christ Child with her left. Christ, with his well-defined hair, is naked. His cheeks are highlighted with red, he holds an apple in his left hand and with the other hand makes a sign of blessing towards the faithful. Virgins with Child on a crescent moon were very popular in the second half of the 15th century, especially as the central subject of altarpieces in southern Germany and Austria. The crescent moon on which Mary is standing is reminiscent of the Woman of the Apocalypse. Often equated with the Virgin Mary. This episode is taken from the Book of Revelation (12:1-6) 1 Then a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head. ; 2 She was pregnant, and she cried out because she was in labor, in pain from giving birth. ; 3 Then another sign appeared in heaven: it was a great fiery red dragon, with seven heads and ten horns, and seven royal crowns on his heads. ; 4 His tail swept down a third of heaven's stars and threw them to the earth. The dragon stood in front of the woman who was about to give birth so that when she gave birth, he might devour her child. ; 5 She gave birth to a son, a male child who is to rule all the nations with an iron rod. Her child was snatched up to God and his throne. ; 6 Then the woman fled into the desert, where God has prepared a place for her. There she will be taken care of for one thousand two hundred sixty days. Some theologians see in this woman a reference to the Virgin Mary and in the child, Jesus.  This remarkable work is a very fine example of sculpture from Swabian workshops in the last decades of the 15th century. It presents all the characteristic stylistic elements: a highly girdled silhouette, an abundant drapery with angular folds, but also a great physical presence accentuated by the polychromy that restores the anatomical details. This group is made of a wooden log. The deep folds of the drapery highlight the movement of the Virgin holding the child. Bibliography : Sophie Guillot de Suduiraut, Dévotion et Séduction, Sculptures souabes des musées de France, vers 1460-1530, Paris musée du Louvre-Éditions somogy, 2015 “Revelation 12 - Common English Bible...

Category

German Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Polychrome carved wood Virgin and Child from the 15th Century

$51,352

Etruscan Bronze Statuette of Discus Thrower

Located in London, GB

A remarkably fine example of Archaic sculpture. A figure of a discophoros, or discus bearer, standing with his right leg forward, gripping a discus in his right hand, the left arm raised with an open palm. Described with admiration in Münzen und Medaillen's 1961 auction, "The figure is a masterpiece and illustrates with rare vividness the essence of good Etruscan sculpture...

Category

Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Etruscan Bronze Statuette of Discus Thrower

$155,000

Italian Renaissance Carved Wooden Angel Head

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Italian renaissance hand carved wooden "putto" angel head, circa 15th Century Width 14 inches / height 14 inches / depth 4 inches 1 available in stock in Italy Order reference #: FAB...

Category

Italian Renaissance Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Italian Renaissance Carved Wooden Angel Head

$1,800

Ancient Greek Terracotta Antefix in Form of the Head of Artemis Bendis, Taranto

Located in Antwerp, BE

Ancient Greek mould-made terracotta antefix decorated with the female head of the Goddess Artemis Bendis. Western Greek, Italy, Taranto, early 4th century BC. Two small feathered win...

Category

Italian Classical Greek Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Ancient Greek Terracotta Antefix in Form of the Head of Artemis Bendis, Taranto

$5,732

Taino Pre-Columbian Carved Jade Zemi Pendant

Located in Astoria, NY

Taino Pre-Columbian Carved Jade Kneeling Figure Zemi Pendant. 2.25" H x 1" W x 1" D. Provenance: From the Upper East Side Apartment of a Former Ambassador.

Category

Caribbean Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Jade

Taino Pre-Columbian Carved Jade Zemi Pendant

$850

Important 15th Century Polychrome Wood Virgin and Child

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Important 15th century polychrome wood virgin and child Origin: Southern Germany Period: Late 15th Century, Ca. 1480-1490 Height : 125 cm Polychrome limewood Good condition Provenance : Private collection, Alsace, France. As soon as 1430, sculpture starts a major and deep stylistic evolution than will unfold over a century, until around 1530. We call it the International Gothic. This production is particularly interested in a quest for realism. This important Virgin and Child wears a long red dress with a round gilded neckline. A delicate golden belt...

Category

Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Important 15th Century Polychrome Wood Virgin and Child

$167,007

Virgin and Child in Majesty

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Virgin and child in majesty Origine: castille Epoque: early 14th century Measures: Height: 72cm Length: 30cm Depth: 25cm Polychrome and gi...

Category

Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Virgin and Child in Majesty

$41,751

Pair of Terracotta Han Guards in Polychrome Paint China Han-Dynastie, TL Tested

Located in Salzburg, AT

Pair of terracotta Han guardsmen in polychrome paint China TL tested Pair of rare standing male terracotta sculptures/warriors of the Chinese Han dynasty from the 2nd century BC. W...

Category

Chinese Han Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Terracotta, Acrylic

Pair of Terracotta Han Guards in Polychrome Paint China Han-Dynastie, TL Tested

$31,767 / set

Gandharan Stucco Head of the Buddha, 3rd-5th Century

Located in Austin, TX

A sublime Greco-Buddhist stucco head of the Buddha, ancient region of Gandhara, circa 3rd-5th century. A fragment of a larger statue, the Buddha's face...

Category

Pakistani Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Stucco

Gandharan Stucco Head of the Buddha, 3rd-5th Century

$11,500

Small Song Dynasty Carved Wood Bodhisattva, 13th Century, China

Located in Austin, TX

A small and very fine Chinese carved sandalwood figure of a bodhisattva, possibly Avalokiteshvara (Guan Yin), Song Dynasty (960 to 1276), circa 13th ...

Category

Chinese Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Small Song Dynasty Carved Wood Bodhisattva, 13th Century, China

$9,500

Egyptian Painted Sarcophagus Mask

Located in Astoria, NY

Egyptian Painted Sarcophagus Mask, gesso over wood composite, mounted on metal base. Overall: 11" H x 7.5" W x 3.75" D. Provenance: From a Fifth Avenue Collection.

Category

Egyptian Egyptian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Gesso, Wood

Egyptian Painted Sarcophagus Mask

$1,800

Hellenistic Grotesque Theatre Mask of Maccus

Located in London, GB

Grotesque theatrical mask of Maccus Late Hellenistic or Early Imperial period, circa 1st century B.C. – 1st century A.D., likely from Southern Italy. Terracotta with remains of pin...

Category

Italian Classical Roman Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Terracotta

Hellenistic Grotesque Theatre Mask of Maccus

$150,000

La Tolita-Tumaco Standing Female Figure

Located in Chicago, IL

This standing effigy was crafted in 500 A.D. - 1000 A.D. Mesoamerica using the gray clay paste that characterizes La Tolita-Tumaco ceramics of early Colombia-Ecuador. The art of La Tolita-Tumaco civilization is considered one of the most developed of the pre-Columbian period as metalwork and ceramics were the most popular form of cultural expression. The ceramic creations of this culture were often based on the human figure to create portraits of people and realistic daily scenes of life cycles and the human condition. This figure appears to be wearing a loincloth and is adorned with a beaded necklace and an elaborate coiffure or headdress. There are holes lining each ear indicating the potential use of ear spools...

Category

South American Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

La Tolita-Tumaco Standing Female Figure

$1,280

Tang Dynasty Museum Fat Lady and Child TL Tested

Located in Dallas, TX

Tang Dynasty polychromed fat lady with child in arm. TL Tested Terracotta, pottery with traces of orange and green paint Sui to Tang Dynasty (581-618) Measures: Height: 20.2 inches (51cm) Width: 9.45 inches (24cm) Guaranteed Authentic with corresponding TL Thermoluminescence Test conducted by Artemis Testing Lab Included in the sale of this item. Condition: Excellent with loss to pinky and wear commensurate of age. This rare and outstanding ceramic court attendant was made during what many consider to be China’s Golden Age, the T’ang Dynasty. It was at this point that China’s outstanding technological and aesthetic achievements opened to external influences, resulting in the introduction of numerous new forms of self-expression, coupled with internal innovation and considerable social freedom. The T’ang dynasty also saw the birth of the printed novel, significant musical and theatrical heritage and many of China’s best-known painters and artists. The T’ang Dynasty took control in 618 AD, when the Li family seized power from the last crumbling remnants of the preceding Sui Dynasty. This political and regal regime was long-lived, and lasted for almost 300 years. The imperial aspirations of the preceding periods and early T’ang leaders led to unprecedented wealth, resulting in considerable socioeconomic stability, the development of trade networks and vast urbanisation for China’s exploding population (estimated at around 50 million people in the 8th century AD). The T’ang rulers took cues from earlier periods, maintaining many of their administrative structures and systems intact. Even when dynastic and governmental institutions withdrew from management of the empire towards the end of the period – their authority undermined by localised rebellions and regional governors known as jiedushi –the systems were so well-established that they continued to operate regardless. The artworks created during this era are among China’s greatest cultural achievements. It was the greatest age for Chinese poetry...

Category

Chinese Tang Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Terracotta

Tang Dynasty Museum Fat Lady and Child TL Tested

$18,000

Tang Dynasty Fat Lady Pottery Figure

Located in Dallas, TX

Tang Dynasty Terracotta sculpture of a fat lady This stunning lady wears her hair in an elaborately styled coiffure. A remarkable amount of the original pigm...

Category

Chinese Tang Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Pottery

Tang Dynasty Fat Lady Pottery Figure

$4,500

Tang Dynasty Museum Quality TL Tested Terracotta Fat Lady Figure

Located in Dallas, TX

Tang Dynasty painted terracotta fat lady tomb figure China. Tang Dynasty Circa 618-907 Modelled in the form of a classically dressed fat lady, this terraco...

Category

Chinese Tang Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Terracotta

Tang Dynasty Museum Quality TL Tested Terracotta Fat Lady Figure

$14,000

Pair of Tang Dynasty Sancai Glazed Tomb Guardians, Zhenmushou, 7th-8th Century

Located in Austin, TX

A fantastic and powerful pair of Chinese Tang Dynasty three-color (sancai) glazed zhenmushou, tomb guardian figures, late 7th or early 8th century. TL t...

Category

Chinese Tang Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Earthenware

Pair of Tang Dynasty Sancai Glazed Tomb Guardians, Zhenmushou, 7th-8th Century

$55,000 / set

Early Ming Dynasty Chinese Buddha Statue, circa 14th Century

Located in Dallas, TX

A very fine late Yuan to early Ming Chinese terracotta gilt and polychrome painted Buddha figure, he is dressed in thick robes, his hair arranged in ty...

Category

Chinese Ming Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Terracotta

Early Ming Dynasty Chinese Buddha Statue, circa 14th Century

$5,400

15th Century Corpus Christi Wood Sculpture

Located in Stockholm, SE

Rare late 15th century or early 16th century Gothic Corpus Christi wood sculpture. Probably North German or South Sweden. This large Christ sculpture...

Category

German Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Wood

15th Century Corpus Christi Wood Sculpture

$13,733

Nayarit Chinesco-Style Figure

Located in Chicago, IL

This seated effigy figure was crafted in 300 BC to 300 AD from the ancient Nayarit region of Mexico and was likely used as a ritual or burial offering. The ceramic works of the Chine...

Category

Mexican Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Nayarit Chinesco-Style Figure

$1,880

French Gothic Stone Sculpture – 14th Century

Located in Madrid, ES

Possibly a Noblewoman Elegant stone sculpture from 14th-century Gothic France, possibly representing a noble lady. The bust features finely carved details in the attire, with attent...

Category

Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Limestone

French Gothic Stone Sculpture – 14th Century

$3,878 Sale Price

20% Off

Nayarit Pottery Fertility Female Figure With Child

By Nayarit Culture

Located in Dallas, TX

Nayarit Fertility Female Figure With Child Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Nayarit, Ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A seated terracotta female figure from the shaft tomb tradition, shown cradli...

Category

Mexican Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Pottery

Nayarit Pottery Fertility Female Figure With Child

$1,800

Ancient South Arabian Alabaster Statue

Located in London, GB

South Arabian Calcite female figure 3rd Century BC to 1st century A.D. Calcite Alabaster height: 30.5 cm A magnificent alabaster female figure, a f...

Category

Yemeni Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Alabaster

Ancient South Arabian Alabaster Statue

$120,000

Gandharan Stucco Head of a Bodhisattva, Region of Hadda, 3rd-5th Century

Located in Austin, TX

A striking Gandharan molded stucco head of a male Bodhisattva, tentatively identified as Manjushri, ancient region of Gandhara, probably Hadda or surrounding area, 3rd-5th century. The Bodhisattva is sculpted of stucco in an idealized manner as a youthful male, with soft and kind features, a benign expression on his face. He wears an elaborate pleated turban wrapped around his head, with two sweeping lobes at the front. His turban secured on one side by a small image of a roaring lion. The lion may be read as a reference to Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, who is often depicted as riding or subduing a roaring lion, a metaphor for taming the wild thoughts of the mind. Manjushri gazes outwards in a beatific manner from almond shaped eyes, a gentle smile on his lips. The eyes at different levels when looking at the sculpture head on, indicating the original placement of the head was meant to be viewed at an angle. Remnants of pigments to the eyes, nose, mouth and ears. Mounted on a custom black metal stand. Hadda was an important center of Buddhist learning in the early history of Greco Buddhist Gandhara, and at one time may have housed a bone relic of the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni. The sculpture and architecture of Hadda followed Hellenistic artistic conventions faithfully, leading some scholars to believe the distinct Greco Buddhist style of Gandhara was first developed in Hadda before spreading to the rest of the region. The kingdom of Gandhara was situated at a crossroads of trade and cultures. Being one of the last remnants of Alexander the Great's Empire, the inhabitants of the Greco-Bactrian Buddhist kingdom preserved Greek culture and heritage for centuries after the decline of the Greek Empire...

Category

Afghan Hellenistic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Stucco

Gandharan Stucco Head of a Bodhisattva, Region of Hadda, 3rd-5th Century

$11,500

Northern Wei Dynasty Painted Terracotta Horse Torso, 386–534 A.D. or Later

Located in Bonita Springs, FL

A sculptural terracotta horse from the Northern Wei Dynasty (386–534 A.D.), featuring the head and torso rendered in a dynamic, upright pose. The surface is richly decorated with swi...

Category

Chinese Primitive Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Terracotta

Northern Wei Dynasty Painted Terracotta Horse Torso, 386–534 A.D. or Later

$2,650

Egyptian Fragment of a Seated Man - Ancient Egypt, 26th Dynasty (664-525 BC)

Located in Bruxelles, BE

Egyptian Fragment of a Seated Man Limestone - polychromy Ancient Egypt, 26th Dynasty (664-525 BC) Most likely from the tomb of Montw-m-H3t Provenanc...

Category

Egyptian Egyptian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Limestone

Egyptian Fragment of a Seated Man - Ancient Egypt, 26th Dynasty (664-525 BC)

$6,568

Antique Roman Marble Head of Venus 1st-3rd Century AD

Located in Doha, QA

A captivating Roman marble head of Venus, dating from the 1st–3rd century AD, exquisitely carved and presented on a bespoke marble pedestal styled as a classical column top. The deli...

Category

Italian Classical Roman Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Marble

Antique Roman Marble Head of Venus 1st-3rd Century AD

$13,300

Ancient Egyptian Faience Ushabti Figure, c. 700-30 B.C.

Located in Los Angeles, CA

An impressive Ancient Egyptian Faience Ushabti figure, belonging to the c. 700-30 B.C. It consists of a molded pottery having a green glazed surface. The figure is wearing a royal wi...

Category

Egyptian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Pottery

Ancient Egyptian Faience Ushabti Figure, c. 700-30 B.C.

$3,400

A Very Rare and Important Marble Relief of the ‘Resurrection of Christ’

Located in London, GB

A Very Rare and Important Marble Relief of the ‘Resurrection of Christ’ Attributed to the Master of the Mascoli Altar Marble Venice, Italy Second half of the 15th Century SIZE: ...

Category

Italian Renaissance Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Marble

A Very Rare and Important Marble Relief of the ‘Resurrection of Christ’

$310,000

Roman Marble Foot

Located in London, GB

Roman marble Fragment of a Right Foot with Sandal Circa 1st - 2nd Century A.D. An evocative Roman marble fragment, preserving the front portion of an over-lifesized sandalled foot. The toes, nails, and bridge of the foot have been sensitively carved. The outer sole of the sandal remains, with delicate, pointed straps joining between the first two toes in a diamond shape. This fragment once belonged to Danish sculptor Jens Adolf Jerichau...

Category

Italian Classical Roman Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Marble

Roman Marble Foot

$22,000

Teotihuacan Redware Figure

Located in Chicago, IL

This intriguing redware figure was crafted in 400 A.D. from the ancient Teotihuacan region of Mexico. Earthenware figurines were made in great abundance throughout Teotihuacan's history. After 250 A.D. objects made from clay increased dramatically, serving a wide variety of purposes and functions from religious rituals to burial offerings. Figurines like this commemorated important people and events within the city of Teotihuacan and other parts of Mesoamerica, portraying individuals of different rank and status such as soldiers, merchants, bureaucrats, and occasionally divinities. This figure is adorned with an elaborate headdress, a thick beaded necklace...

Category

Mexican Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Teotihuacan Redware Figure

$680

Important Olmec figure of Olmec ethnic dignitary from the preclassic period

Located in Madrid, ES

Important Olmec figure of Olmec ethnic dignitary from the preclassic period (2500-200 BC) Important Olmec figure of dignitary of the Olmec ethnic group of...

Category

Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Precious Stone

Important Olmec figure of Olmec ethnic dignitary from the preclassic period

$14,744 Sale Price

20% Off

Late 15th Century Polychrome Wood Carving Depicting the Nativity

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

While the birth of Christ is briefly told in the Gospel of Luke (2, 7) it is in the apocryphal texts that we find most of the elements and details that have then inspired artists. As of the 14th century and even more of the 15th century the subject of the Adoration of the Child replaces in Western art the scene of the Birth, much favoured in Byzantine art. Instead of being depicted lying with the new-born swathed in the manger, the Virgin is now kneeling, her hands joined in prayer in front of the naked child. This change was probably hastened by the popularity of the visions of Saint Bridget of Sweden to whom the Virgin allegedly appeared to show how she had given birth to Jesus (Visions, VII, chap. 21). Sheltered by a thatch-roofed structure the Virgin is kneeling in front of the Child Jesus. She wears a magnificent red dress under a large gold cloak. Her curled blond hair is partially veiled. The newborn is lying on a straw mat. Joseph is depicted with a parted beard and stands opposite from the Virgin. He wears a tunic and a coat with a purse hanging from the belt. His costume reminds us of the long journey him and Mary have accomplished to reach Bethlehem. Two other women are present. One is looking through the stable’s window to observe the Holy Family while another one kneels in prayer in front of the divine child. The rich costume of the lady might indicate she is a donator. However they could also both represent the women who took part in the birth of Christ, Zelemi and Salome. Salome, incredulous did not believe in the virginal conception of Mary and she is represented far from the scene. The artist has depicted her with an expression of doubt on her face. Zelemi, on the contrary, is a believer. She is rewarded by a place of honour at the heart of the scene, close to Mary. To the left the donkey and ox that have accompanied Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem observe quietly the scene. On the foreground two angels hold a scroll reading an excerpt from the Gloria : “/Gloria/ in excelsis /Deo/.” One of the angels wears a blue cape while the other’s is red Those two colours are very significant as during Middle-Ages blue symbolises hope and red charity. Together they express the hope in redemption thanks to the advent of Christ and his sacrifice to come. Above the main scene, up a cliff, a small shepherd lets his herd of sheep graze amidst the trees. He is framed by two walled cities. This wood carving is the work of a very skilled and inventive artist. The piece bears witness to his exceptional talent. The realism of the scene is emphasised by the amount of details depicted. The refinement of the carving itself is highlighted by the well preserved polychromy. This key moment of the New Testament is set in a contemporary context thanks to the clothes of the characters and the scenes of rural life. The universal dimension of the scene is intensified while allowing contemporary viewers to grasp its meaning more easily. This care for details, the picturesque realism as well as the extraordinary rendition of the cloths suggest it was made by a Flemish artist during the late 15th century. This relief can be compared with the panel of the Nativity from the Saint-Vaast altarpiece made by Jacques Daret between 1433 and 1435, today in Madrid’s Thyssen-Bronemisza Museum. Literature Louis Réau, Iconographie de l’Art chrétien...

Category

Dutch Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Late 15th Century Polychrome Wood Carving Depicting the Nativity

$53,681

Tang Dynasty Painted Pottery Fat lady Sculpture

Located in Dallas, TX

A wonderful period Tang Dynasty Pottery Figure of a Fat Lady. Tomb Pottery China Height: 15 Inches No TL Test A COA by Avantiques will accompany the sale of this item. Condition: Ve...

Category

Chinese Tang Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Pottery

Tang Dynasty Painted Pottery Fat lady Sculpture

$2,400

Greek Black Glazen Column Krater (4th Century BC)

Located in Soho, London, GB

Black Glazen Column Krater mid-4th century BC, Apulia With broad avoid body on a short echinus foot and thick mouth. The two handles form loops around the...

Category

Italian Classical Greek Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Greek Black Glazen Column Krater (4th Century BC)

$15,517

Chinese Northern Wei Terrecotta Attendant - TL Tested

Located in Dallas, TX

Circa 386-534 ADA well defined Chinese Northern Wei Terracotta Attendant Statue. The Figure is depicted standing with his hands along the body, wearin...

Category

Chinese Tang Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Terracotta

Chinese Northern Wei Terrecotta Attendant - TL Tested

$1,600

Pre-Columbian Pottery Figure of a Woman Giving Birth

Located in Sofia, BG

Pre-Columbian pottery figure of a seated woman giving birth, with her hands behind the back. It was most probably used by a shaman to look for the benevol...

Category

Mexican Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Terracotta

Pre-Columbian Pottery Figure of a Woman Giving Birth

$16,241

A Roman Marble Sculpture of Hercules, Circa 1st / 2nd Century AD Ex Sotheby's

Located in ARMADALE, VIC

A Roman Marble Sculpture of Hercules, Circa 1st / 2nd Century AD The sculpture is nude except for the draped Nemean lion skin. Provenance: Sotheby's London, December 14, 1981, lot ...

Category

Italian Classical Roman Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Marble

A Roman Marble Sculpture of Hercules, Circa 1st / 2nd Century AD Ex Sotheby's

$58,680

Rare Large 15th Century Renaissance English Oak Roof Angels Corbel.

Located in Vero Beach, FL

Rare Large 15th Century Renaissance English Oak Roof Angels Corbel. Truly astonishing rare roof angels, circa 1450. The large Medieval carvi...

Category

English Medieval Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Oak

Rare Large 15th Century Renaissance English Oak Roof Angels Corbel.

$18,500

Pre-Columbian Ceramic Head Fragment

Located in Chicago, IL

This intriguing head fragment was once attached to a pre-Columbian bust or full effigy figurine. Earthenware figurines like this were made in great abundance throughout Mesoamerican history, serving a wide variety of purposes and functions from religious rituals to burial offerings. Figurines like this commemorated important people and events across Mesoamerica, portraying individuals of different rank and status such as soldiers, merchants, bureaucrats, and occasionally divinities. This figure is adorned with an elaborate headdress, or coiffure, and ear spools...

Category

Central American Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Pre-Columbian Ceramic Head Fragment

$228

Antique Gothic Carved Limestone Model of a Madonna or Venus

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A fine antique limestone carving. Modeled as a Madonna. With her head slightly tilted, holding an orb in one hand, and with her other hand resting on her breast. By repute ...

Category

Unknown Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Limestone

Antique Gothic Carved Limestone Model of a Madonna or Venus

$3,250

15th Century Burgundian Low-Relief Depicting Scenes of the Nativity

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Provenance : In the same private collection for several generations, Burgundy. The canonical Gospels describe briefly the episode of the Nativity. It comprises three parts : • The Preludes : the Journey to Bethlehem, the Census • The Nativity • The Announce to the Shepherds and the Adoration of the Magi Only the Gospel according to Matthew (2, 1-12) speaks about the Adoration of the Magi. Staying vague about their number it does say they brought the newborn gold, incense and myrrh. The apocryphals, the fathers of the Church and many other authors have filled in the gaps of the evangelic tale. The sobriety and symbolic of the story have been a huge inspiration to artists. Although one of the oldest depictions of the Adoration of the Magi dates from the 2nd century the theme became very popular in Christian art during the late 14th century. One of the reasons explaining this success is that it celebrates both the Virgin and Christ at the same time. This important walnut panel is carved in a strong relief and depicts the different steps of the story of Jesus’ birth. On the left, the donkey and ox that have accompanied Mary and Joseph from Bethlehem are depicted behind a trough. On the thatch roof appears the star that would guide the magi to the place of birth of Jesus. Mary is wearing a veil and is seating on a bed. She holds her baby at arm’s length to present him to the magi. Saint Joseph is by her side. The old man is holding a cane in his left hand while from the right hand he seems to uncover himself to greet the visitors. A woman assists to the scene. In front of the holy family the three magi stand behind one another to pay their homage to the newborn. The first magi has a pointed beard. He is already kneeling out of deference and has placed his crown to his feet. He gives the baby a hanap filled with gold coins. This is Melchior as the legend describes him with white hair and a long beard. Caspar, the second magi bears a cup of incense. He is looking at the third magi and with his right hand he points to the star that has guided them there. He has a short beard and wears crakow shoes, breeches and a wide sleeved doublet. Finally Balthazar, the elegant last magi proceeds proudly towards the holy family with his one hand on the saber’s hilt and the other holding a cup. He brings the divine child the myrrh. He probably just dismounted as the horse can be seen behind him. The scene is set in a very detailed and narrative decor. In the right part of the panel the shepherd receive the announce of Jesus’ birth. An angel comes down from heaven with a scroll bearing the good news in his hands. The herding dog sleeps peacefully while sheeps graze. At the top of the cliff we notice the gilded sheeps enclosure. The panel’s moulded frame is carved with a foliated decor. In it’s centre appears a coat-of-arms. It is the alliance of the three magi’s arms. Indeed as it was common for legendary figures the three of them received imaginaries coat-of-arms. Thus, on a field of azure stands a star for Melchior, a crescent for Caspar and a pennon for Balthazar. This high-relief panel is undeniably the work of a very skilled and imaginative artist. This key moment in the New Testament is transposed to a contemporary environment thanks to the figures’ clothing and the rural daily life scene. This way the universal dimension of the episode is highlighted allowing a better understanding for the contemporaries. The sculptor has represented the episodes of the Adoration of the Magi and the Announce to the Shepherd with great talent and numerous details giving life to a picturesque and narrative scene. The important traces of polychromy give those already very animated scenes a stronger pictorial power and a rich dynamism. Because of the picturesque and familiar realism so dear to the artists of the late Medieval era, of the didactic function of this type of panel as well as the quality of the sculpture this piece is an astounding example of Burgundian art of the 15th century. Literature Louis Réau, Iconographie de l’Art chrétien...

Category

French Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Walnut

15th Century Burgundian Low-Relief Depicting Scenes of the Nativity

$143,309

Ancient Roman Marble Sculpture

Located in Round Top, TX

Ancient Roman marble sculpture. Includes custom iron stand. This is the real thing!

Category

Italian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Marble, Iron

Ancient Roman Marble Sculpture

$14,500

Greek Black Glazen Column Krater (4th Century BC)

Located in Soho, London, GB

Black Glazen column krater, mid-4th century BC, Apulia. With broad avoid body on a short echinus foot and thick mouth. The two handles form loops around t...

Category

Italian Classical Greek Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Greek Black Glazen Column Krater (4th Century BC)

$15,517

Roman Marble Trapezophorus circa 1st-2nd Century A.D

Located in Madrid, ES

A Roman marble trapezophorus in the Form of a Barbarian Dacian young figure. Circa 1st-2nd century A.D. Measure: height 24 1/4 inches (62 cm). Property from Mr. Radu Moldovan, Skokie, Illinois Provenance: B.C. Holland Gallery...

Category

Italian Classical Roman Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Marble

Roman Marble Trapezophorus circa 1st-2nd Century A.D

$40,556 Sale Price

20% Off

Thai Lopburi Cast Bronze Seated Buddha, 13th Century

Located in Austin, TX

A fine early Thai Lopburi figure of a crowned and adorned Buddha, cast bronze, mid-13th century. The unusual figure of the Buddha sits in virasana upon a stylized lotus pedestal. He is dressed in the traditional monastic robes, but also adorned with a crown and jewelry, including earrings, a necklace, and jeweled belt. His hands in an atypical combination of mudras. His right hand in bhumisparsha mudra, reaching down to touch the earth, while his left hand held somewhat outwards, seemingly in varada mudra, the gesture of granting favours or wishes. The palm of his outstretched hand marked with the dharmachakra, the Wheel of the Law, representing Buddhist teaching. The bronze with a beautiful silvery patina. Lopburi was an independent Mon kingdom with strong ties to the Khmer Angkor...

Category

Thai Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Thai Lopburi Cast Bronze Seated Buddha, 13th Century

$4,200

Romanesque Sculpture of the Virgin – 15th Century

Located in Madrid, ES

"Romanesque Sculpture of the Virgin – 15th Century" Period: 15th century Romanesque Technique: Carved and polychromed solid wood Dimensions: 124 x 36 x 17 cm Impressive Romanesque s...

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