With Strachen Fine Art, London 2014

Surface abrasions and wear. Some chipping particularly around edges. Losses include to lower edge of bottom right corner area, some of crenellation above niche, and far right-hand figure's proper left arm. Small loss to lower left corner. Minute traces of polychromy.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

England dominated the market for carved stone altarpieces in Europe for most of the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries and Nottingham was the major center for production. Alabaster was found in the quarries near Derby, west of Nottingham and sculptors capitalized on the softness of the stone which made it easy to carve. Standard designs were used for the reliefs, although no two panels are alike. Following the dissolution of the monasteries in 1539, the industry suffered as the number of commissions diminished, dying out completely by the end of the reign of King Henry VIII in 1547.

RELATED LITERATURE
Francis Cheetham, Alabaster Images of Medieval England, Woodbridge, 2003