Lot 117
A FINE AND IMPRESSIVE GOTHIC STYLE CARVED IVORY AND WOOD PASSION TRIPTYCH, PROBABLY FRENCH. The central panel of arched form and the upper register with Gothic carved overhanging elements and set with a finely carved ivory Corpus Christi (see illustration above). The corpus carved in full round with good proportions and anatomy, cascading hair and deep folds and set on a crucifix being part of the carved relief and polychrome support. At the base of the cross on the left, a carved ivory figural grouping of the Apostle John and the Virgin Mary, and on the right, the other Marys, both carved in high relief with deep folds. Below, the two-tiered register with twelve Gothic niches, each set with a carved relief figure of an apostle. The left and right hinged wings with eight similar carved Gothic arched niches and each set with a carved relief figural grouping depicting a scene from the passion of Christ, read from top to bottom, left to right, they include: the Entrance into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, the Betrayal of Christ, Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane, Judas, Christ on the Way to Calvary, the Entombment and the Resurrection. The verso of the wings carved in linen fold design (see illustration above). Height 31.75 inches (80.7 cm), width 29.5 inches (75 cm).
Estimate:  $4,000 - 7,000   € 2,800 - 4,900

Price Realized: $25,200.00

While there is no doubt that the carved and polychromed wood triptych structure was produced in the second half of the 19th century, it is very likely that the carved ivory elements are from an earlier period. This seems especially possible when considering the carved ivory corpus, specifically, its highly refined style and even, natural overall patina.