Latin America, Mexico, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden male Santo figure - possibly Saint Joseph (San Jose) who is customarily depicted holding the infant Jesus in his left hand (now missing) - dressed in flowing vestments with billowing drapery that cascades over his body. His face is carved with delineated features and facial hair - crowned by a shoulder-length coiffure with incised marks to indicate locks of hair around the periphery. Size: 10.625" H (27 cm)
Santos played an important role in bringing the Catholic Church to the New World with the Spanish colonists. These religious figures were hand-carved and often furnished with crowns, jewels, and other accessories, usually funded by religious devotees, and were used as icons to explain the major figures - Mary, Christ, and the saints - to new, indigenous converts. Likewise, they served as a connection to the Old World for Spanish colonists far from home. They became a folk art tradition in the Spanish New World, from modern day Guatemala to as far north as New Mexico and Colorado. Many of them were lovingly cared for over the years, with repairs and paint added as they aged, and played an active part for a long time in the religious life of their communities.
Provenance: ex California, USA estate
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#139070
Condition
Missing arms which may have been carved separately. Perforation to front of vestments - perhaps where the infant Jesus was once attached. Stable age cracks and inactive insect holes. Remains of white and yellow pigment grace the surface. Normal surface wear with a few old scuffs and nicks commensurate with age.