Element of a walnut altarpiece carved in high relief in two parts with minute traces of polychromy, representing the souls in purgatory in the midst of flames. Six figures on two levels emerge from the vigorous flames; some have their hands joined, others their arms raised, all are in an imploring attitude, calling for the viewer's prayer to deliver them from this purifying fire. Italy or Spain around 1600 H. 115 cm - L. 186 cm (accidents and restorations)

Composed of several subsidiaries, the Drouot Group is a major player in the art market. Hôtel Drouot, located in the heart of Paris, has been the world's largest public auction center since 1852. 15 salerooms are available to more than 70 auction houses. The emulation generated by an annual offer of 230,000 artworks from 21 major specialities - from Antiquity to street art - attracts some 3,000 visitors every day. The Group's digital platform, Drouot.com, offers digital sales - Live auctions (live broadcasting and participation in auctions), Online-only auctions (dematerialised auctions) and Buy Now sales (sales of lots at fixed prices). Nearly 2 million items are offered annually by 600 auction houses. Auction news is reported every week in La Gazette Drouot, the leading weekly magazine for the art market and culture published by Auctionspress.