Russian folk art - Figurine - Saint Nil Stolobensky - Carved wood

Carved wooden devotional figure depicting Nil Stolobensky, a Russian Orthodox hermit saint of the 16th century, revered for his extreme ascetic way of life.

According to tradition, Saint Nil never lay down to sleep, but rested standing upright, supported by two wooden crutches placed under his arms — a distinctive and rare iconographic feature clearly represented in this sculpture.

Hand-carved from wood with an oil-finished surface and natural dark patina developed over time. The carving displays the restrained, austere character typical of Russian Orthodox folk devotional art. Likely intended for private or monastic devotion.

Estimated period: late 19th
Height: 22.5 cm.
Condition: age-related wear, surface patina, and a slightly warped base consistent with the age and material.