15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
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Period: 15th Century and Earlier
Rare Antique Medieval Gothic Corpus Christi, Large, Untouched Museum Masterpiece
Located in Doha, QA
An extraordinary and museum-worthy 14th/15th century Gothic Corpus Christi, masterfully hand-carved in wood with exceptional anatomical detail and partially polychromed in white and ...
Category
Austrian Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Wood
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
$1,080 Sale Price
40% Off
Tang Dynasty Full Set Of Painted Pottery Zodiac Figures TL tested
Located in Dallas, TX
Tang Dynasty Full Set Of Painted Pottery Zodiac Figures (TL tested)
The Thermoluminescence Report (Item #185404) will accompany this sale.
A Rare Set of Chinese Pottery Zodiac Figures from the Tang Dynasty painted with black and orange pigments. The conventional order of the twelve Chinese zodiac...
Category
Chinese Tang Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Pottery
$9,600 Sale Price
20% Off
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
$14,400 Sale Price
40% Off
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
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
$1,920 Sale Price
20% Off
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
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
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
$3,600 Sale Price
20% Off
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
$11,200 Sale Price
20% Off
Corbel with an Angel Holding a Shield
- Burgundian Netherlands 15th century
Located in Bruxelles, BE
Corbel with an Angel Holding a Shield
Franco-Flemish, Burgundian Netherlands 15th century
Limestone
On a modern metal stand
H 21 x L 16,5 x P 18,5 cm
This finely carved stone corbel,...
Category
Belgian Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Limestone
Chupicuaro Redware Figure
Located in Chicago, IL
This standing effigy figure was crafted in 300 BC from the ancient Chupicuaro region of Mexico and was likely used as a ritual or burial offering. The ceramic works of the Chupicuaro...
Category
Mexican Pre-Columbian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Ceramic
Carved Sandstone Jain Family Group, 6th-7th Century, Uttar Pradesh, India
Located in Austin, TX
A fine and rare Indian carved sandstone stele of a Jain family group, Sarnath style, early Indian Medieval period, 6th-7th century, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Carved from a single block of buff sandstone, the stele features a Jain family group comprised of a father, mother, and two children. The family group is portrayed upon a lotus pedestal under a tall palm tree. The mother and father both seated in a relaxed pose known as lalitasana, or royal ease pose, a jovial expression on their faces. The mother holds the daughter in her lap. The younger son scampers mischievously up the trunk of the palm tree, his head turned to look back at his parents.
Above the family, nestled in a niche amongst the palm fronds, an image of a Jain Tirthankara...
Category
Indian Medieval Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Sandstone
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
Virgin and Child in Majesty, also known as "Sedes Sapientae"
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
VIRGIN AND CHILD IN MAJESTY, ALSO KNOWN AS "SEDES SAPIENTIAE"
ORIGIN : SPAIN, CATALOGNE
PERIOD: EARLY 13th CENTURY
Height : 95 cm
Width : 32 cm
Depth : 28 cm
Softwood
No polychromy
In the middle of the 12th century, the Virgin took her place in churches, seated in Majesty, serving as a throne for her son Jesus. She is then called Sedes Sapientiae, meaning the Throne of Wisdom.
At that time, she is not represented for herself and only exists because she has been designated as Theotokos, the mother of God, at the Council of Ephesus in 431, where the divine nature of Christ was proclaimed from his birth.
The upright and perfectly hieratic bust of this Virgin and Child in Majesty is seated on a throne-bench. She is dressed in a tunic with a rounded neckline and covered with a fine mantle placed on her narrow shoulders. The supple and natural drapery follows the lines of the body.
Large curls frame her face with delicate and regular features, a long straight nose, almond-shaped eyes, and small lips.
She supports the Infant Jesus with her left hand. Like his mother, he is dressed in a long tunic, and his little feet are visible in the folds. He holds a small sphere in his left hand, while with his right hand, he gestures in blessing. The face of Christ bears a strong resemblance to his mother’s one, and he gives a slight smile.
The position of the Child is no longer as hieratic, nor frontal or central as in the early 12th century, but his face still turns towards the faithful.
The 13th century indeed emerges as a period of transition in the artistic domain. The statuary, while retaining certain characteristics still belonging to the habits of the previous century, also develops new formal solutions.
As a result, Mary maintains a hieratic and frontal position, while her son shifts to place himself well to the left on her knee. Similarly, while the Virgin seems perfectly still, Jesus, on the other hand, appears much more animated, especially in the positioning of his hands. His left hand holds the orb, and judging by the raised right arm directed towards the faithful, one can easily imagine that he was making a gesture of blessing.
The influence of the Sedes Sapientiae from previous centuries still seems particularly prevalent in this work.
These few characteristics allow dating this Spanish Virgin...
Category
Spanish Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Softwood
Pair Gandharan Stucco Heads of Donors, 3rd-5th Century, Gandhara
Located in Austin, TX
A charming pair of Gandharan molded stucco heads of donors, ancient region of Gandhara (modern day Pakistan / Afghanistan), probably Taxila, circa 3rd-5th century.
The two heads most likely represent donors. Donors to temples would often have their images enshrined in the artworks of temple walls in thanks for their support.
One head portrays a youthful figure with a plump, smiling face, and full head of hair arranged in fat curls and secured by a headband. The androgynous figure...
Category
Pakistani Hellenistic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Stucco, Wood
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
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
$22,000
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
$4,320 Sale Price
20% Off
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
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
Tang Dynasty Pottery Lokapala Tomb Figure
Located in Dallas, TX
A wonderful Chinese red clay pottery tomb figure from the Tang Dynasty (618 to 907). Guarding a dignitary or decorated soldier; these figures stood guard for over a thousand years surviving to decorate your home collection of ancient artistic and cultural artifacts. Original Polychromed red and gray paint pigments still present.
Chinese Buddhist guardian statues made of earthenware and pigments, from the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), dated to the late 7th to first half of the 9th century.
The foreign facial features of this brilliantly sculpted guardian figure is evidence of the strong Western presence in Tang-dynasty China. Originating in the Lokapala deity of the Buddhist religion, which came to China from the West, this type of armored tomb guardian...
Category
Chinese Tang Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Terracotta
$1,280 Sale Price
28% Off
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
Indian Carved Sandstone Frieze of Lakshmi, Central India, 10th-11th Century
Located in Austin, TX
A large and impressive Indian carved sandstone architectural frieze featuring a central image of the Hindu goddess Lakshmi flanked by two atten...
Category
Indian Medieval Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Sandstone
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
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
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
$42,049
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
Tang Dynasty Mingqi Earth Spirit Tomb Guardians TL Tested
Located in Dallas, TX
Chinese, Tang Dynasty (618 AD to 906 AD) TL tested
A pair of semi-human earth spirit figures seated on their haunches with cloven hooves planted firmly on...
Category
Chinese Han Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Pottery
$4,000 Sale Price
33% Off
Grand Scale 15th Century Solid Hand Carved Stone Male Statue
Located in Larkspur, CA
Grand scale 15th century solid hand-carved stone male statue. Source of origin Bhutan.
Category
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Stone
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 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
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
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
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
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
Khmer Carved Sandstone Male Deity, Style of the Baphoun, 11th Century
Located in Austin, TX
A delightful carved sandstone sculpture of an unidentified male deity, Khmer, Angkor Period, style of the Baphuon, 11th century.
The smil...
Category
Cambodian Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Sandstone
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
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
$1,280 Sale Price
20% Off
Rare Japanese antique wooden god statue /12th century/small wabi-sabi figurines
Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba
I was able to obtain a very rare item.
This is a sculpture of the god ``Shinzo''.
"Shin" = God
"zo" = statue
Since ancient times in Japan, it has been believed that gods reside in all things in the universe, and there have been many shrines.
In the 6th century, Buddhism was introduced and gradually spread throughout Japan.
Around the 8th century, the idea that gods follow the teachings of Buddha spread.
Until the Edo period, God and Buddha became one and the idea of ``Shinto and Buddhism syncretism'' was established.
This statue was created during such a history.
Originally, the image of God was invisible and could not be understood as something tangible.
However, with the introduction of Buddhism to Japan, idol worship was also introduced, and the idea that the gods follow the teachings of Buddha was also propagated at the same time in order to spread the teachings of Buddhism.
Around that time, around the 9th century, the first statues of gods...
Category
Japanese Other Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Cypress
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
$42,290 Sale Price
20% Off
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
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
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
Antique French Romanesque 11th Century Pair of St.Peter and St.Paul Limestone
Located in Doha, QA
An extremely rare pair of original 11th century French Romanesque limestone hand carved sculptures of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. Each figure is represented on a marble block, withou...
Category
French Gothic Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Limestone
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
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
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
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
$14,849 Sale Price
20% Off
Renaissance Winged Cherub Relief
- Florence, 15th century
Located in Bruxelles, BE
Renaissance Winged Cherub Relief
Florence, Second Half of the 15th Century
Stone with traces of polychromy
Provenance: Important private collection, Northern Italy
This exceptional...
Category
Italian Renaissance Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Stone
Hand-Crafted Vintage Hat Mold Form Made of Pine from Stockholm, Sweden
Located in Stockholm, SE
This beautifully aged, hand-carved vintage hat mold comes from the renowned hat-making company Hugo Landahl in Stockholm, Sweden. Rich in character and patina, it serves as a unique ...
Category
Swedish Folk Art Antique 15th Century and Earlier Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Pine
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