Figurine - Sacro Cuore di Gesù - 36 cm - Polychrome wood

Title: Hand-carved Sacred Heart of Jesus Sculpture - Polychrome & Gilded Wood - First Half 20th Century

Description:
Charming devotional statue depicting the Sacred Heart of Jesus, dating back to the first half of the 20th century (circa 1900-1940). This piece is of clear artisanal craftsmanship and, a detail of great value, is entirely hand-carved from a single solid block of wood (monoxylous carving).

The sculpture features a flat-carved back with visible and beautiful gouge marks, a classic feature of statues intended to be placed inside niches or small home altars. The base still shows the original workshop hole used by the artisan to secure the wooden block to the workbench or lathe during carving.

The facial features are sharp and expressive, with a solemn, downward gaze. The Sacred Heart is carved in high relief on the chest, surrounded by rays showing traces of period gilding.

Condition:
The item is in good general condition, preserving a beautiful vintage patina. It displays classic and genuine signs of age that guarantee its authenticity: minor and natural paint loss along the edges of the drapery showing the underlying gesso preparation, a natural wood shrinkage crack on the front of the robe (above the foot), and a dense network of craquelé on the blue mantle's paint on the back. An old protective glossy finish is present on the hair. Structurally solid and stable.

Dimensions:
Height: 36 cm
Base height: approx. 6.5 cm