Baroque - Stabat Mater - Statue Of Saint John In Carved Wood - Polychrome And Gilded Wood - Italy

Dating: Mid-18th century (circa 1750) Origin: Northern Italy Provenance: Private collection, Auvergne – Haute-Loire The Beloved Disciple at the Foot of the Cross – Sculpture of Emotion in the Late Baroque Tradition This carved, gilded and polychromed wooden statue depicts Saint John the Evangelist, his hands clasped on his chest and his face turned towards heaven in an attitude of sorrowful prayer. This type of representation belongs to the register of the Stabat Mater, a poignant scene in which John, a faithful witness, stands beside the Virgin during the Crucifixion of Christ. The saint is dressed in a tunic with carmine and gold highlights, enhanced by a blue cloak falling over his shoulder. The delicate treatment of the face, with its expression marked by restrained sadness, as well as the careful work of the draperies, illustrate the heritage of the Italian religious Baroque, while announcing a certain stylistic sobriety specific to the late 18th century. The base, with cut sides, is painted in faux red veined marble, in keeping with the liturgical ensemble to which the statue must have belonged. It most likely comes from a secondary altar or a private devotional space. Please note: This statue was originally part of a sculpted ensemble also including the Virgin, executed in the same workshop. Although they can be sold separately, their expressive power is fully revealed when they are brought together. Description • Material: Carved, polychrome and gilded wood • Subject: Saint John at the foot of the Cross • Style: Late Baroque / Italian popular devotion • Base: Faux red veined marble • Origin: Northern Italy • Condition: Very good, original patina, tiny old chips Dimensions • Height: 28.5 cm ALL DELIVERIES ARE MADE BY DHL EXPRESS ONLY.