Antique Spanish Colonial Santo Bulto Wood Carving Monk Figure Saint Dominic 20"
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.
Antique Spanish Colonial Santo Bulto Wood Carving Monk Figure Saint Dominic 20"
Sale price$450.00
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