New World, Spanish Colonial inspired, Mexico, ca. early to mid 19th century CE. An antique wooden santo figure, hand-carved and hand-painted depicting the Christian Saint Francis of Assisi, one of the most popular saints in the Catholic canon, known for his love of animals and nature as well as his miraculous acts. He stands on an integral fluted platform in flowing dark-brown robes upon sandaled feet with a twisted cord tied around his waist, with rounded shoulders and a slender chest defining his masculine posture. His head depicts sensitive facial features presented beneath his characteristic tonsure which was seen by Christian followers as a sign of humility and devotion to the faith. A small drilled hole atop the head is meant to hold an aesthetic ornament like a halo or a crown, and traces of the original red and orange pigmentation are still visible in some areas. Size (with attached stand): 4.125" W x 16.875" H (10.5 cm x 42.9 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: private California, USA collection

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#134957

Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age, losses to both arms, part of nose, part of hood, and area of stand on verso. Fading to some finer carved details as well as most areas of pigmentation. Light earthen deposits and nice dark-brown patina throughout. Great traces of original pigmentation in some areas.