18th Century French Polychrome Carved Moses Figure in Gothic Oak Niche

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Description

Crafted in France circa 1760, this expressive biblical sculpture depicts the prophet Moses, the revered lawgiver of Judaism and Christianity. … Read more Crafted in France circa 1760, this expressive biblical sculpture depicts the prophet Moses, the revered lawgiver of Judaism and Christianity. Carved in wood and retaining its original polychrome finish, the robed figure stands in quiet authority, holding one hand aloft in gesture. As in Michelangelo’s interpretation, Moses is represented with small horns, an artistic detail originating from a Latin mistranslation of the Book of Exodus describing the divine light that shone from his face after receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai.
The figure rests inside a finely carved Gothic oak niche featuring pointed arches and openwork tracery along the crown. The architectural frame enhances the devotional character of this antique religious piece, making it ideal for a library, chapel, or study. Both statue and case are in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, with rich patina and warm coloration throughout.
Dimensions:
Niche – 10.5" W × 30.5" H
Figure – 8" W × 19" H See less