When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Antique 18th/19thC Spanish Colonial Santos Virgin Mary Wood Carving 14"ITEM DESCRIPTION:
Up for sale is an authentic Spanish Colonial Santos figure of the Virgin Mary, dating from the 19th century. This 14-inch devotional statue is an example of traditional Santero folk art, intricately carved from a single piece of lightweight softwood with an integrated oval base.ICONOGRAPHY & TECHNIQUE:
The figure features a beautiful silhouette with her hooded robe/veil dipping elegantly to the mid-back. She wears an integrated, hand-carved 4-pointed crown emerging from her veil. Her hands (originally joined in prayer) are missing, which is a classic characteristic of genuine antique Santos of this era.Most notably, the robes retain minimal traces of their originalEstofado decoration. Under strong light, a faint, gold shimmer is visible where the artisan scratched scroll patterns into the paint layer to expose the underlying gold leaf. (Note: This is very faint as much of the paint and decoration has worn away.) The 3.5" x 5" oval base features some of its original yellow paint, meant to simulate a gilded pedestal.CONDITION REPORT (Please Read & View Photos Closely):
This piece is in untouched, original antique condition with a honest patina.
- Paint & Surface: Features original polychrome paint and gilding with no modern restoration or overpainting. There is extensive historic wear to the paint.
- Structure: The praying hands are missing at the wrists, a very common occurrence with antique Santos.
- Wood Condition: There is historic termite/pest damage visible (pockets/tunnels) especially on the back with some spots soft to touch (see images). The santos remains structurally intact and has a wonderfully weathered, authentic feel.
- Please review all photos as they serve as the primary visual description of the item’s condition. This item is sold in "as is" condition. Feel free to ask any questions.
DIMENSIONS:
- Height: 14"
- Base: 3.5" x 5" (Oval)
