A large Flemish polychrome walnut retable, probably... Lot n° 489

Full title: A large Flemish polychrome walnut retable, probably Ghent, dated 1529 Description: Dim.: ca. 130 x 212 x 17,5 cm  A large carved walnut wood altarpiece in high relief, polychromy and gilt composed of five panels representing the Flagellation, the Carrying of the Cross, the Crucifixion, the Resurrection and Saint Paul with a cleric, probably the donor. The whole presented in an architectural setting with arcades, pilasters with flat foliated balusters. The two upper left friezes show cherubs carrying the instruments of the Passion for the left part and a suite of musical cherubs on the right.  In the lower part we encounter five panels. The first bears the date 1529, the second the Veil of Veronica. The central panel shows a shield surrounded by tears. The fourth panel is decorated with the heads of fantastic animals with foliage at the ends, while the fifth and last panel shows nails in a central cartouche. The vertical dividers show the apostles holding a book, standing beneath a shell canopy.  Expert: Cabinet Benoit Bertrand About this sale: Paul De Grande is one of the major dealers of antique furniture, fine sculptures and decorative arts in Europe. In 1974, he moved to the Castle of Snellegem near Bruges. From there, he catered to the rich and famous, important decorators and museums around the world. Entering a new chapter, Paul has decided it is time to part with his private collection and part of his trade stock. This sale presents a unique opportunity to clinch a piece of this wonderful personality's history. Paul's main focus has always been on Renaissance sculpture, French and Italian furniture and pieces of museal quality. He has had sales with Christies and Sotheby's in the past. He's also an important personality on various Belgian tv shows.