Antique Spanish Colonial Polychrome Carved Wood Bishop Saint Bulto With Glass Eyes, Circa 1800

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A remarkable antique Spanish Colonial devotional bulto depicting a bishop saint, hand-carved in wood and richly decorated with original-style polychrome … Read more A remarkable antique Spanish Colonial devotional bulto depicting a bishop saint, hand-carved in wood and richly decorated with original-style polychrome and gilt-painted details, circa 1800.

The standing saint is depicted in elaborate ecclesiastical vestments with a bishop's mitre and exceptionally detailed red, gold, green and burgundy painted decoration. His face is beautifully modeled and fitted with inset glass eyes, giving the small devotional figure an unusually expressive presence.

The figure retains two distinctive attributes: a radiating metal sunburst or monstrance-like emblem held in one hand and a slender metal cross in the other. A rosary-like chain descends from the hand alongside the figure.

The richly painted robes are particularly striking, with extensive hand-painted floral and ornamental decoration continuing around the sides and back. The figure stands upon its original carved and polychromed integral base.

Centuries of wear, paint loss, surface variation and exposed wood have created a beautiful timeworn patina that adds considerably to the character of the piece. The underside retains an old hand-applied inventory or collection marking.

A highly decorative example of Spanish Colonial devotional art with exceptional color, surface and presence.

Height: 9"
Width: 4.5"
Depth: 2" See less