Pair 18th Century Italian Baroque Carved Painted Wood Adoring Angel Sculptures

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Full of movement and devotional expression, this impressive pair of antique religious sculptures depicts two adoring angels kneeling upon billowing … Read more Full of movement and devotional expression, this impressive pair of antique religious sculptures depicts two adoring angels kneeling upon billowing clouds populated with winged cherub heads. Crafted in Italy circa 1750, the large hand-carved wood figures embody the theatrical spirit of the Baroque period, with dramatically arranged drapery, upward gazes, animated gestures, and deeply modeled cloud formations.

Each youthful angel is portrayed in a flowing belted robe, one knee raised as the figure appears to ascend from the clouds below. Their heads tilt heavenward with serene, expressive faces framed by curling hair, while their extended hands suggest that the figures may originally have accompanied a larger church or altar composition. The bases are particularly sculptural, incorporating numerous cherub and putti heads emerging among vigorously carved scrolling clouds.

The surfaces retain a warm, time-softened patina with remnants of an earlier painted or gessoed finish visible throughout, emphasizing the depth of the carving and centuries of age. Viewed from the reverse, the figures reveal the unmistakable handwork and hollowed construction associated with large ecclesiastical wood sculpture. Each has been mounted on a later shaped wood platform with a discreet rear support for stability.

Originally conceived as architectural or altar ornament, these substantial Baroque figures now make extraordinary decorative sculptures, whether displayed together on a console, flanking an architectural element, or incorporated into a collection of European religious art.

Excellent antique condition commensurate with age and use, with expected surface wear, and some old repairs, consistent with their ecclesiastical origin and considerable age.

Dimensions: 25” W x 12” D x 33” H See less