Statue, Santo Vescovo che benedice - 43 cm - Limewood

Popular devotional sculpture in polychrome wood – Saint Bishop (probably Saint Nicholas of Bari)

Northern Italy / Alpine area, early 20th century

Hand-carved wooden sculpture depicting a saint bishop, probably identifiable as Saint Nicholas of Bari, according to popular iconography. The work features a naive character and strong facial expressiveness, typical of popular devotional production spread between the late 19th century and the early decades of the 20th century.
Made of carved soft wood (very likely linden) with original tempera polychromy, now extensively worn and with an authentic patina. The back is unfinished, as is customary for objects intended for niche or private chapel use.

Conditions consistent with age: widespread wear, cracks from wood aging, abrasions, and loss of color. No invasive restorations or modern overpainting are noticeable.

An authentic object of popular devotion is not a modern creation.


Details

Material: carved and polychrome wood
Technique: manual engraving
beginnings of the 20th century
Probable origin: Northern Italy / Alpine area
Height: 43 cm
Condition: good relative to its age.

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