Figure - Portuguese Presépio Folk Art Group – 6 Carved and Painted Wood Figures - Polychrome wood

Portuguese Presépio Folk Art Group – 6 Carved and Painted Wood Figures – Late 19th / Early 20th Century

A charming group of six Portuguese folk-art presépio figures, carved in wood and retaining their old painted surface, dating from the late 19th to early 20th century.

The group belongs to the Portuguese tradition of presépio and devotional folk sculpture, in which small carved and painted figures were used in Nativity scenes, domestic devotional displays and seasonal religious settings.

The ensemble consists of five figural pieces and one devotional standard, the latter with a circular frame containing a red cross and IHS motif. The figures are individually carved and painted, with simple expressive faces, period costume and a restrained palette of green, red, brown and ochre.

Their appeal lies in the direct and naïve character of the carving, typical of regional folk production rather than formal academic sculpture. Each figure has its own personality, and together they form a decorative and atmospheric devotional group.

The painted surfaces show extensive natural wear and rubbing, giving the ensemble an attractive, untouched appearance consistent with age and use.

Origin: Portugal
Period: Late 19th to early 20th century
Style: Folk art / devotional art
Material: Carved and painted wood
Number of pieces: 6
Dimensions: Figures approximately 11–12 cm high

Condition:
Good authentic antique condition with age-related wear, rubbing, small losses, surface dirt and old imperfections to the polychromy. Minor historic repairs and irregularities may be present. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the condition description.

Dating and attribution:
Portuguese folk devotional art, late 19th to early 20th century, based on style, construction and painted surface.