Antique 18th Century Walnut Figural European Santos Figure

An antique 18th century Walnut Figural European Santos – Saint Figure

Anonymous
Northern Europe, probably Belgium; first-half of the 18th century
Walnut

Approximate size: 17 (h) x 4.25 (w) x 4.25 (d) in.

The present sculpture, perfectly suited for a curiosity cabinet or English-European country styled home, was likely realized for a church side chapel or choir stall niche. The serious look of the saint’s face and his slightly back-leaning pose speak to the Gothic meets post-Renaissance influences still present in early 18th century Northern Europe. The plinth features a cartouche which may have once had the saint’s name painted thereupon if the statue was once polychromed, although it may have originally been conceived in its present form.

Condition commensurate with age. Minor scratches, dings, and small traces of old worming. Losses to the digits of the raised hand of St. Peter and the front right corner of the plinth is lost although this does not affect the stability of the standing sculpture.