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18th Century Santo Figure Mannequin Figures Florence Italy Original Patina

$6,226.46
£4,602.73
€5,200
CA$8,468.42
A$9,488.82
CHF 4,939.29
MX$116,081.09
NOK 62,695.16
SEK 59,214.83
DKK 39,595.45
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About the Item

This extraordinary jointed doll – a so-called Santo figure – probably originates from Florence and dates back to the 18th century. With a height of 78 cm, a depth of 20 cm and a width of 26 cm, it impresses with its presence, the clear structure of its body and its original colour scheme. It is in remarkably good condition: the original polychromy shows an authentic patina of age, which impressively underlines the historical character of the figure. So-called Santos or mannequin figures of this type were widespread in Italy and Spain since the Baroque period. These are sacred wooden figures, usually made of lime or pine wood, which served as objects of devotion or procession figures. In churches, chapels and private house altars, they represented saints or the Virgin Mary and were often festively dressed, adorned with jewellery or equipped with attributes. Especially in Italy, and particularly in Florence, they were provided with finely carved and movable limbs – often designed so that they could be positioned like jointed dolls. The open, stick-like base was originally used to attach textile garments that completely enveloped the figure, thus reinforcing the impression of a lifelike saint. The artistically crafted upper body with fine painting, the calm-looking face and the filigree hands testify to the high artistic standards of the Florentine workshops of the 18th century. Such figures were not only used for religious purposes, but also as artistic objects of study: painters and sculptors occasionally used them as models for studies of clothing and the human body. Today, Santo figures such as these are sought-after collector's items of sacred folk art and fascinate viewers with their combination of craftsmanship, religiosity and historical authenticity.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 30.71 in (78 cm)Width: 10.24 in (26 cm)Depth: 7.88 in (20 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1720-1780
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Epfach, DE
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5243245862632

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