A CARVED AND POLYCHROMED WOOD FIGURE OF A YOUNG MALE SAINT

Probably Southern Italy, late 18th century

26 1/8" H x 9 1/2" D x 12 5/8" W

A carved and polychromed wooden figure of a young male saint, retaining its original inset glass eyes and early painted surface. The youthful face is carefully modeled with delicately painted features, rosy cheeks and finely textured short brown hair. The torso is more simply worked, with truncated shoulders indicating that the figure was originally fitted with separate arms and intended to be dressed in fabric for devotional display.

Condition: Extensive age related wear to the original polychromed surface, including scattered chips, scratches, abrasions, small losses, accumulated grime and discoloration. Both original inset glass eyes with cracks. The nose appears to have been reattached or restored. The arms are absent, and a small hole at the top of the head suggests a missing halo. Retains an extensively worn early surface with areas of exposed wood. A large missing piece of wood to reverse at his hip.

ref. 606LGW25P