Carved and gilded wooden crest with the Vera Icon Southern Europe (probably Italy or Spain), 18th century Carved and gilded wood with tempera. A carved and gilded wooden crest depicting the Vera Icon, the Holy Face of Christ impressed upon Saint Veronica’s veil, painted in tempera on a gesso ground within a Baroque cartouche. The gilding retains a deep, mellow patina and fine craquelure. The form and scale suggest it once crowned a crucifix or small altarpiece, serving as a devotional emblem of Christ’s true presence. Dimensions: ca. 20 x 21 cm. In fairly good condition, some wear to the paint.