New World, Central America, probably Guatemala, Spanish Colonial style, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A striking, hand-carved wooden santo depicting St. Anthony of Padua. He stares forward with a serious, intense expression; his arms are raised, one in blessing, and the other palm upward, as if he once held some implements. His robes are simple, brown with a heavy cape and long, smooth sash. He has a perforation in his head that once held a halo. He stands atop a tall, multi-tiered pedestal. St. Anthony was a Portuguese Franciscan priest and friar who died in Padua, Italy. Despite being born into a wealthy family, he was known for his intense devotion to the poor and sick, and holds the distinction of being canonized most quickly of all the saints. He is also known as the patron saint of lost things - objects, people, and souls. Size: 8" L x 7.7" W x 19" H (20.3 cm x 19.6 cm x 48.3 cm)

Santos played an important role in bringing the Catholic Church to the New World with the Spanish colonists. These religious figures were hand-carved and often furnished with crowns, jewels, and other accessories, usually funded by religious devotees, and were used as icons to explain the major figures - Mary, Christ, and the saints - to new, indigenous converts. Likewise, they served as a connection to the Old World for Spanish colonists far from home. They became a folk art tradition in the Spanish New World, from modern day Guatemala to as far north as New Mexico and Colorado. Many of them were lovingly cared for over the years, with repairs and paint added as they aged, and played an active part for a long time in the religious life of their communities.

Provenance: Kurquhill's Gallery, El Paso, Texas, USA; ex private El Paso, Texas, USA collection, acquired early to mid 1970s

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#127838

Halo is lost, as are the fingers of one hand. Surface wear commensurate with age, including small areas of craquelure on face and hands. Figure fits onto pedestal, but is not firmly attached.