16th C Carved Saint Agatha Of Sicily Wooden Retablo Panel Polychrome & Gilt Icon

This is an exceptional and rare 16th-century Spanish wooden polychrome sculpture representing Saint Agatha of Sicily, preserved as part of a larger retablo (altarpiece) element. Carved in high relief and painted with rich original pigments and sgraffito gilt detailing, this devotional figure is a powerful example of Renaissance religious craftsmanship.

Saint Agatha is easily recognized by her traditional attributes—the palm of martyrdom in one hand and a plate with her severed breasts in the other, symbolizing her torture for refusing to renounce her Christian faith. Her serene yet solemn facial expression is framed by delicately carved features and a radiant shell niche, topped by baroque-style scrolls. This iconography is a classic representation of early Christian martyr saints in Spain and Italy and was meant to invoke divine protection, especially for women suffering from breast ailments and for those in danger.

The panel was most likely part of a side altar or chapel retablo, intended for veneration by the faithful. The vivid reds, golds, and blacks, though worn, still display their original intent—to glorify the saint and inspire devotion. The reverse shows typical old tool marks and patina consistent with early Spanish ecclesiastical woodwork.

This is not just an antique sculpture but a sacred artifact of liturgical heritage and craftsmanship, ideal for collectors of early Christian saints, ecclesiastical art, and Renaissance devotional objects.

Condition:

The sculpture is in good antique condition, with visible wear to the polychrome and gilding consistent with its age. There are small chips and some wood loss at the edges, but no structural instability. The facial features remain distinguishable, and the carved details are overall well preserved for a 16th-century piece.

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