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Period: 15th Century and Earlier
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
$11,200 Sale Price
20% Off
Large Tang Dynasty Pottery Painted Lokapalas Sculptures 28 Inches
Located in Dallas, TX
Tang Dynasty Pair of Painted Pottery Lokapalas
Tang Dynasty (618-907),
Height: 27.25 x 11.5 x 7" each
PROVENANCE: Weisbrod Chinese Art, Ltd., New York
Condition: Losses and resto...
Category
Chinese Tang Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Pottery
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
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 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
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
Antique Roman Marble Head of a Goddess, Possibly Venus, 1st-3rd Century AD
Located in Doha, QA
A captivating Roman marble head of a Goddess, possibly Venus, dating from the 1st–3rd century AD, exquisitely carved and presented on a bespoke marble pedestal styled as a classical ...
Category
Italian Classical Roman Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Marble
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Important Virgin and Child in Majesty
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
Important virgin and child in majesty
Origin : Germany Or Eastern France
Époque : Second Half Of The 13th Century
Height: 104.5 cm
Length: 3...
Category
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Oak
Gandharan Standing Bodhisattva Maitreya, Carved Black Schist, 2nd-4th Century
Located in Austin, TX
An impressive and well carved Gandharan figure of the Bodhisattva Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future, carved black schist, ancient Kingdom of Gand...
Category
Pakistani Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Schist
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
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
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
Gupta Empire Torso of Vishnu
Located in Chicago, IL
A mesmerizing Gupta Empire (mid-3rd century BCE - 543 AD) mounted terracotta torso of a standing Vishnu. Vishnu is the preserver god, which means he p...
Category
Bangladeshi Hellenistic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Terracotta
$18,500
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
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
12th Century Indian Carved White Marble Figure of a Jain Tirthankara or Jina
Located in Austin, TX
A well carved Indian white marble Jain temple relief fragment featuring an image of a Jina, circa 12th century, Rajasthan or Gujarat, India.
The Tirthan...
Category
Indian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Marble
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
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
Important German Pietà from the, 14th Century
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
IMPORTANT GERMAN PIETÀ FROM THE 14th CENTURY
ORIGIN: GERMANY, REGION DE COLOGNE
PERIOD: BEGINNING IF THE 14th CENTURY, ca. 1330
Height: 98 cm
Length: 45 cm
Depth: 33 cm
Polychromed linden wood
Good condition of conservation
Provenance : particular Alsatian collection
The theme of the Pietà or Vesperbild appears in Germany at the end of the 13th century, reflecting the mysticism of the late Middle Ages. Although the theme does not exist in the Gospels, it was often mentioned in contemporary devotional literature. Indeed, during the first half of the 14th century, mystical thought and devotional practices changed under the impulse of a number of religious, among them Heinrich Suso and St Bridget. In his writings, Suso placed important emphasis on contemplation and meditation in the footsteps of Christ's martyrdom.
This will have great impact in the field of art, especially in Germany and later in France. The emphasis will from now on be on grief, death is shown in a straightforward way. The wounds of Christ are gaping and bloody. The suffering of Christ and the seven sorrows of the Virgin Mary are meditated upon.
This piece demonstrates the interest of the faithful in these representations where pathos reigns.
The virgin is represented seated in a frontal position. The bust is very elongated. She is wearing a red dress with a simple neckline and a blue mantel...
Category
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Wood
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
Thai Sukhothai Cast Bronze Buddha Head, 15th/16th Century, Thailand
Located in Austin, TX
An exquisite Thai cast bronze Buddha head, Sukhothai kingdom, circa 15th century, Thailand.
The Buddha's pleasing face, with its narrow, oval ...
Category
Thai Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Bronze
Olmec Pre-Columbian Jade Erotic Sculpture
Located in Astoria, NY
Olmec Pre-Columbian Carved Jade Erotic Sculpture, depicting a male figure embracing a female figure. 1.75" H x 3.25" W x 1.75" D. Provenance: From the Upper East Side Apartment of a ...
Category
Central American Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Jade
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
Large Han Dynasty Terra-cotta Court Lady Figure TL Tested
Located in Dallas, TX
Huge Han Dynasty Terracotta figure Of A Court Lady. TL Test conducted by Ralf Kotalla Laboratory in Germany. Report included.
Height: 29...
Category
Chinese Han Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Terracotta
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
Antique 15th c. Gothic Italian Corpus Christi in Polychrome Wood, Hand-Carved
Located in Doha, QA
Exceptional 15th Century Polychromed Wood Crucifix Sculpture from Northern Italy
This rare and exquisite 15th-century hand-carved Corpus Christi ...
Category
Italian Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Stone, Marble
Pair of Tang Dynasty Painted Pottery Soldiers
Located in Austin, TX
A well modelled pair of Tang dynasty painted pottery soldiers.
The warriors portrayed standing, dressed in form fitting, elaborate layered Armor with fitted helmets. The breastplate...
Category
Chinese Tang Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Pottery
$25,000 / set
Unusual Tang Dynasty Persian Horse Rider Statue, Silk Road Trader, TL Tested
Located in Greenwich, CT
A fine and unusual statue of standing horse with a Persian rider. Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) Silk Road trader from Persia, comes with Oxford authenticati...
Category
Chinese Tang Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Terracotta
$6,200 Sale Price
20% Off
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
Nayarit Chinesco-Style Seated Figure
Located in Chicago, IL
This seated ceramic figure is attributed to the ancient Nayarit region of Mexico and was likely used as a ritual or burial offering. The ceramic works of this style, known as Chinesc...
Category
Mexican Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Ceramic
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
$41,176
A Burgundy Christ, 15th century
Located in PARIS, FR
A huge Burgundy 15th century Christ on its cross.
Oak wood .
Cross is modern.
Damages, some parts missing.
98x83 cm without the cross.
Category
French Renaissance Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Wood
Stone Carved Anthropomorphic Sculpture From The Recuay Culture Peru 400bc-400ac
Located in Madrid, ES
ANTHROPOMORPHIC SCULPTURE CARVED IN STONE OF THE RECUAY CULTURE PERU 400BC-400AC
Recuay is an archaeological culture of Ancient Peru that developed in the Sierra of the current Peruvian department of Áncash between 200 AD. C. until 600 d. C. It corresponds to the stage called Regional Developments, it has also been called the Huaylas or Santa culture.
Like the other Early Intermediate cultures, little is known about this culture. The most accepted position is that it was an extension of the Chavin culture, after the influence of the "White on Red" style in the region. Regarding the political aspect of the recuay, there is a hypothesis that questions their autonomy and maintains that Recuay would be part of one of the many political units that made up the Moche state.
The recuay style, characterized by its ceramics and stone sculpture, was initially described by Eduard Seler in 1893, based on ceramic specimens brought to the Ethnographic Museum in Berlin by Mariano M. Macedo. Seler named this style of pottery Recuay, based on the report that these pieces had been found in the town of Recuay. Later studies showed that this characteristic pottery was not originally from Recuay but from Copa, near Carhuaz, for which reason the name change to that of this town was proposed. Eventually the name of Huaylas was used for this culture. In 1919 Julio C. Tello explored the area and recovered lithic sculptures and Recuay-type ceramics. In the 1960s Rafael Larco Hoyle proposed changing the names of Recuay and Copa to Santa, arguing that the Recuay style had originated in the coastal regions of the Santa Valley. However, the name Recuay has persisted.
Its chronology is also highly debatable. The time of its origin between 0 and 200 AD is discussed. C. and its end or collapse is commonly set to 600 d. C. probably caused by the invasion of the Huari conquerors.
It encompassed almost the entire Callejón de Huaylas, a narrow valley fed by the Santa River and enclosed between two mountain ranges, the Cordillera Blanca to the west and the Cordillera Negra to the east. Its influence extended to the east to the Marañón river basin and to the west to the upper parts of the Santa, Casma and Huarmey valleys. To the north it reached the town of Pashash, in the province of Pallasca.
The Copa area, Marca district, Recuay province, Ancash department seems to have been the center or main nucleus of cohesion of this culture. The name of the culture would then be justified, derived from the province of the same name. Other important settlements were those of Huilcahuaín (near the current city of Ancash), Cátac, Araucay, Tambo, Jancu, Upayacu and Pashash (near the current city of Cabana).
Its main form of expression of art was through stone work (carving and masonry), inherited from its predecessor, the Chavín culture. In addition, they made sculptures in lumps that represent warriors with shields or trophy heads, with which they decorated their complex architectural constructions. They also made white clay pottery...
Category
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Stone
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
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
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
Roman Marble Statuette of Jupiter
Located in London, GB
Roman Marble Fragment of jupiter
Circa 2nd-3rd Century A.D.
Measure: Height: 19.7 cm
This beautiful Roman fragmentary statuette depicts Jupiter, the king of the gods, here recognisable from his two chief attributes, the eagle with outstretched wings - according the Pseudo-Hyginus, singled out by Jupiter because ''it alone, men say, strives to fly straight into the rays of the rising sun'' - and the base of the scepter, which remains at the side of the left foot, an aspect likely borrowed from the statue of Zeus at Olympia, once one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Though much of the original piece has been lost, the subtle anatomical detail in the feet mark this out as a piece of exceptional quality, and the work of an artist of particular talent and patience - as Johann Winckelmann once said of the famous Belvedere Torso, ''if you contemplate this with a quiet eye [...] the god will at once become visible in this stone.''
This fragment once caught the eye of Henry Howard, 4th Earl of Carlisle (1694-1758), a Knight of the Garter and among the most prolific collectors of his day. The piece, acquired during his travels to Rome, was proudly displayed on an alcove of the Western Staircase of Castle Howard...
Category
Italian Classical Roman Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Marble
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 cradling an infant over her right shoulder - likely a symbolic representation of fertility, maternity, and the continuity of life. This expressive red-slipped sculpture is boldly modeled with exaggerated limbs and stylized facial features, impressed eyes, a broad nose adorned with a septum piercing, and ear ornaments. Her elaborate coiffure is incised with vertical striations and rises into a high crest, pierced at the top with a vent hole connecting to the hollow interior. Manganese blooms across the surface attest to its long burial. Such figures were ritually interred in shaft tombs to accompany the dead, offering symbolic protection or ensuring rebirth in the afterlife.
Dimensions: 4 Inches Wide x 8.4 Inches Height (10.2 cm x 21.1 cm)
Condition: Presents beautifully with restorations to the head.
Provenance: Collection of Y. Kayvan, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired from a Los Angeles, California, USA gallery acquisition dates range from the late 1990s to 2005
Legal to acquire under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14.
This Nayarit Figure...
Category
Mexican Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Pottery
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
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
Han Dynasty Gray Pottery Figure of a Female Kneeling Long Sleeve Dancer
Located in Austin, TX
A stunningly quiet and elegant Western Han dynasty (206 BCE - 9 CE) high fired gray pottery figure of a female long sleeved dancer.
The young dancer is portrayed in a moment of quie...
Category
Chinese Han Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Earthenware
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
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
Sculpted Clay Head of African Woman
Located in Dallas, TX
Sculpted clay head of a beautiful African woman. Light sandy brown with rough texture. A hand sculpted piece. Head adorned with a decorative circular pattern...
Category
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Clay
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
Chinese Song Dynasty Buddha Stone Head
Located in Kastrup, DK
Stone Buddha head with beautiful, natural, age-related patina from the Chinese Song Dynasty,
The head, measuring 18 x 12 x 12 cm, is mounted on a wooden ...
Category
Chinese Other Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Stone
Ecce Homo - Florence, 15th century
Located in Bruxelles, BE
A terracotta bust "Ecce Homo"
Florence, 15th century
53 x 44 x 31 cm
Category
Italian Renaissance Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Terracotta
Ceramic Pre-Columbian Colima Hunchback Figure Vessel
Located in Atlanta, GA
A pre-Columbian figural vessel from West Mexico Colima culture (circa 300BC-400AD). Made of molded clay, the stoneware vessel depicts a seated hunchback...
Category
Mexican Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Ceramic
Small Sculpture of an Angel
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
SMALL SCULPTURE FIGURING AN ANGEL
ORIGIN : GERMANY
PERIOD : 15TH CENTURY
Height: 48,5 cm
Width : 20 cm
Depth : 12 cm
Category
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Wood
French Gothic Stone Sculpture of a Bishop – 15th Century
Located in Madrid, ES
Striking Gothic stone sculpture from 15th-century France, depicting a bishop adorned with remnants of original polychromy in shades of blue and green. A highly decorative piece, show...
Category
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Limestone
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
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
Head of a crowned Virgin - Lorraine, first half of 14th century
Located in Bruxelles, BE
Head of a crowned Virgin
Lorraine, first half of 14th century.
H26 x 14 x 14 cm
Provenance :
- Private Collection, Paris France (1960)
Private Collection Tuscany, Italy (1980)
Ex...
Category
French Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Limestone
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