The present figure of the Seated Christ, probably from a Coronation of the Virgin, is likely to have been made in the Meuse-Rhine region under French artistic influence. Compare some of the marble figures from the High Altar of Cologne Cathedral, circa 1310-1320 (Legner, Rhein and Maas Art and Culture, 371-374), as well as reliquary busts and an Enthroned Virgin in the Schnütgen Museum, Cologne (id., nos. 72, 77 and 78). While crafted in the mid-14th century, the wood itself dates between 1025-1155, based on a radiocarbon dating measurement report (with a 95% confidence interval). With objects of this age, it’s often worth getting a detailed sense of the condition, to determine not only the nature of any loss or wearing, but whether there have been repairs/restorations and, if so, whether they impair the work. In this instance, the overall condition of the wood is good, with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. The proper right forearm and a section of the base at the front are lost. There are a few more minor losses, including to the points of the crown, to an edge of drapery at the chest, and to the base at the back. There are remnants of gilding and polychromy throughout. There is a wood dowel inside a hole to the right side of the throne. There is a smaller hole to the left side of the throne. There is a modern metal loop at the back for hanging. There is minor stable splitting to the wood, consistent with the material, notably to the orb.
