**First Time At Auction**

Western Europe, French or Spanish, late Medieval period, ca. 12th to 13th century CE. A lovely limestone altar resembling the form of a miniature capital with 4 sides of intricately sculpted religious reliefs, including the Annunciation, the Nativity, and the Epiphany with Madonna enthroned. Starting in chronological order, one side of the altar depicts the angel Gabriel gesturing toward an innocent Mary as he informs her that she will give birth to the Son of God. The next shows Jesus lying in a manger beneath the heads of farm animals as Mary rests in the foreground, having given birth to the savior in the stable, with Joseph at her feet. The last scene, the Epiphany or Adoration of the Magi, covers 2 sides, displaying the 3 magi or kings lined up toward Jesus, one kneeling in supplication and raising his hand to Christ as Mary sits on a throne with the child in her lap. A petite hole at the top of the altar perhaps served to hold a candle or holy statue. A beautiful example of Medieval sculpture and Christian iconography! Size: 2.2" W x 3" H (5.6 cm x 7.6 cm)

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection

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#176268

Minor chip to top periphery and some expected nicks and abrasions in areas, but otherwise intact and excellent with nice preservation of detail.