This antique bust of "Margaret the Virgin" was created in Portugal circa 1660. The saint, with the original polychromed and gilt finish, houses a small relic, a piece of hand-sewn fabric on the front of the bust by Margaret's heart, protected with glass. The fabric is rhombus-shaped with a scalloped edge, and showcases an intricately stitched, small, shining heart which appears to be bleeding next to a long floral branch. Margaret herself is depicted wearing a serene expression and a headpiece which fully covers her hair. Her arms cross in front of her and it appears as if there were once hands attached to the ends of them which have been lost. The religious figure is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, and adorns a wonderful patinated polychrome finish.
Saint Margaret...
Category
Mid-17th Century Renaissance Antique Portuguese Busts