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This is a highly desirable and authentic antique Spanish Colonial Santo Bulto (Saint Figure) depicting a tonsured monk, likely representing Saint Dominic or Saint Francis. Carved from a single log, this folk art piece features traditional polychrome technique with natural pigments applied over a gesso base. The chest is adorned with a distinctive hand-painted black bird (or crest), and the dark blue/black robes retain traces of primitive gold floral stenciling. It possesses a magnificent, genuine patina that only centuries of devotion and time can create, making it a stellar addition to any religious art or Spanish Colonial collection.
Size and Weight
- Height: Approx. 20.25 inches (51.4 cm)
- Width: Approx. 5.25 inches (13.3 cm)
- Depth: Approx. 5.5 inches (14.0 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 5.2 lbs (2.36 kg)
Materials
- Core: Solid hand-carved wood
- Surface: Gesso base, natural polychrome pigments, and gold gilt accents
Condition Report
The figure shows heavy, honest wear consistent with its great age (approx. 200 years old).
- Structural: There is a significant, deep vertical shrinkage crack running down the front and through the head, which is typical for aged single-log carvings.
- Losses: Both hands/forearms are missing. (This is extremely common for Santos figures of this era, as hands were often carved separately to hold attributes).
- Surface: Widespread paint loss, chipping, scuffs, darkening, and minor historic insect flight holes near the base.
- Stability: Despite the weathered look, the wood and remaining paint layer are dry, stable, and solid—not actively flaking or crumbling.
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