Mid-18th Century Italian Polychrome & Gesso Santos Figure (Female Saint)
£3,995.00
Description
This stunning and rare mid-18th century Italian Santos figure depicts a female saint, masterfully carved in wood and finished with gesso and polychrome paint. The figure features articulated arms and inset glass eyes, lending it a lifelike and expressive presence. It stands on its original octagonal base, which retains remnants of its original painted and gilded decoration.
Mainland UK Delivery Included
International Shipping
Delivery Leadtime
International delivery is estimated at 5-7 working days.
Full details will be confirmed during the ordering process.
Mid-18th Century Italian Polychrome & Gesso Santos Figure (Female Saint)
This stunning and rare mid-18th century Italian Santos figure depicts a female saint, masterfully carved in wood and finished with gesso and polychrome paint. The figure features articulated arms and inset glass eyes, lending it a lifelike and expressive presence. It stands on its original octagonal base, which retains remnants of its original painted and gilded decoration.
These figures were used in Catholic religious processions, dressed in richly embroidered vestments and carried through the streets on feast days. When not in use, they were placed on church altars or in private devotional settings. The articulated arms allowed the figure to be posed in different gestures or clothed appropriately according to the liturgical calendar.
The figure’s finely modeled face and detailed anatomical proportions suggest the work of a skilled artisan from 18th-century Italy, where such devotional sculptures were widely used in churches and convents. Her serene expression, combined with the naturalistic glass eyes and original base, make this an evocative and highly collectible piece.
Provenance: Acquired from a specialist dealer in Belgium with expertise in ecclesiastical art.
Date: Circa 1750
Origin: Italy
Medium: Carved wood, polychrome, gesso, glass eyes
Features: Articulated arms, original base
This is a rare opportunity to own an authentic 18th-century female Santos figure, ideal for collectors of religious art, antique décor enthusiasts, or institutional collections seeking historical devotional works.
Condition Report
This mid-18th century Italian female Santos figure is in very good antique condition, showing age-appropriate wear consistent with its age and devotional use.
The carved wood body is stable and intact. No major structural damage or repairs observed. Original polychrome and gesso finish is largely preserved with areas of minor paint loss, small chips, and light craquelure typical of 18th-century devotional figures. The finely painted facial features remain clear and expressive. Glass eyes are original and securely set. Articulated arms move properly at the shoulders. Some minor wear and scuffing to joint areas. The original octagonal base is present with wear to the painted and gilded surface. Structurally sound.
Measurement
Height:   78 cm /   30.7 inch
Width:    28 cm /   11.0 inch
Depth:    21 cm /   8.3 inch
Weight:   3.3 kg /  7.3 Ilbs
