2

Spanish Colonial Polychrome Wood Santos Figure of a Bishop Saint

Currency:USD Category:Antiques Start Price:80.00 USD Estimated At:800.00 - 2,000.00 USD
Spanish Colonial Polychrome Wood Santos Figure of a Bishop Saint
An expressive and richly colored Spanish Colonial carved wood santos figure, depicting a bearded bishop or ecclesiastical saint, likely St. Augustine or St. Nicholas, shown holding a book and gesturing in benediction. This 28-inch-tall figure is gessoed and polychromed, with remnants of original gilding and stenciled floral ornamentation still visible on the vestments. The saint wears a tall mitre headdress and a long flowing robe painted in bold tones of red, gold, and violet. The style and iconography are consistent with 18th to early 19th-century religious figures from Mexico or Central America, produced for use in churches or private home altars during the Spanish Colonial period. The figure is carved from a single block of wood, with deeply modeled features and stylized drapery folds. The reverse is left flat and undecorated, as typical of processional or niche-displayed santos. Worn and weathered. Heavy paint loss and scattered chips throughout; the right hand is broken with visible canvas and filler exposed; lower base shows losses and deterioration; surface cracks and flaking consistent with age. Structurally sound overall, with excellent presence and authentic devotional wear.

Issued: 19th century
Dimensions: 8"L x 18"H

Condition: Age related wear. paint chipped and worn; hand is broken.