Castilian School Artist after Juan de Anchieta, Saint John the Evangelist, 1580, Carved Wood

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Carving Sculpture “Saint John the Evangelist” circa 1580, Juan de Anchieta workshop – Castilian School

Exquisite carving of Saint John … Read more Carving Sculpture “Saint John the Evangelist” circa 1580, Juan de Anchieta workshop – Castilian School

Exquisite carving of Saint John the Evangelist made towards the last quarter of the 16th century. Of extraordinary workmanship, the iconography corresponds to the attitude of Saint John the Evangelist on Calvary, located to the left of Christ. Crying out to the sky, his eyes are twisted, yet his face is serene. Skill and ability on the part of the author in developing this piece, designed to have a single point of view, a round carving but subordinated to an altarpiece. The back has not been carved, it is roughed to minimize weight.
Saint John presents a complete and exquisite anatomy, both in the face and in the feet and hands. His serene face presents a Greek profile thanks to his straight nose. Likewise, her hair is configured with notable chiaroscuro waves. His hands in a prayer position tend towards a contained realism and his feet, with one more forward than the other, follow the Greek contrapposto. All of these are classicist characteristics, present in the sculptures that draw on the Romanism of Juan de Anchieta (1533-1588).
The padded cloak leaves the right shoulder exposed, revealing the tunic, and is gathered on the opposite arm, falling in wide wavy folds that open to once again show the green tunic with rich brocades. The ideal complement is its polychrome. On the outside, a golden mantle with an extraordinary border of rich bluish tones; Inside, the mantle is reddish. Also worth highlighting is the polychrome work on the face, done with a brush, such as his thin eyebrows or painful tears.
State of conservation: This is a sculpture from the 16th century, it is preserved in good condition with respect to its age and use. There are obvious signs of having been intervened in the 19th century, renovating it and giving it back this special shine. Likewise, wear can be seen in the areas of incarnation, which is nothing disturbing for the overall vision of the whole. A magnificently crafted piece for demanding collectors.

Technique on support: Wood carving
School: Círculo / Taller Juan de Anchieta
Period: Circa 1580
Country of origin: Castilla, Spain
Origin: Private collection
Good condition based on age and use.
Dimensions: 86 x 30 x 30 cm. See less