"Polychrome Wooden Sculpture, Saint Francis"
An 18th-century polychrome wooden sculpture depicting Saint Francis wearing the traditional Franciscan habit, a simple brown monastic habit tied at the waist with a cord with three knots. The knots symbolize the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Saint Francis is depicted in a benedictory pose, with one hand raised and the other resting on his chest, a gesture often associated with preaching and the act of imparting a blessing.
Italy, 18th century
Measurements: H 110 x W 45 (base 28 x 20) cm