Late 19th Century Spanish Colonial Tradition Polychrome Devotional Figure or Santos

Details

Description

A late 19th century devotional figure carved in the Spanish Colonial tradition, retaining substantial original surface and presented on a … Read more A late 19th century devotional figure carved in the Spanish Colonial tradition, retaining substantial original surface and presented on a later wood stand for stability.

The figure is carved from solid wood, with the torso and head formed from a single block and cylindrical arms inserted at the shoulders — a construction approach seen in provincial devotional carving of the late 19th century in Northern Mexico and the American Southwest.

The surface shows genuine age and wear throughout. The face retains original gesso and polychrome with natural craquelure and shrinkage cracking across the forehead and cheeks. Areas of paint loss reveal the white gesso ground and warm wood beneath. The black robe exhibits extensive surface abrasion and flaking, consistent with age and devotional handling.

The figure is not hollowed in the back, a feature common in later 19th century examples. No active insect damage observed. The piece weighs approximately 2–3 pounds including the stand.

The current wood stand is a later 20th century addition and appears to be adhered for display stability. The mounting does not appear to have altered the original carving, but it is not original to the figure.

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Condition

• Significant paint loss and surface wear
• Visible shrinkage cracks consistent with age
• Areas of exposed wood and erosion
• Later mounted stand (not original)
• Structurally stable

This is not a pristine example; rather, it is an honest devotional carving with visible age and material history. See less