“saint In Prayer,” Polychrome Wooden Sculpture, 17th Century

“Saint in Prayer,” polychrome wooden sculpture, 17th century

The sculpture, made of carved and gilded wood, dates back to the 17th century and is a significant example of 17th-century devotional art. The figure, in the round, depicts a nun in a frontal position, captured in an attitude of composed devotion. The delicately modeled face has gentle, serene features, with a pensive gaze that conveys spirituality and introspection.

The clothing is rendered with great attention to detail: the long robe, animated by vertical folds, is enriched with gold leaf that coexists with darker polychrome parts, creating an elegant chromatic contrast. A carved rosary stands out on her chest, an iconographic element that reinforces the religious character of the work. The cloak envelops the figure with a soft flow, contributing to the sense of verticality and solemnity.

The integrated base, also made of wood, shows signs of ageing and a natural patina that testify to the antiquity of the work, without detracting from its strong expressive impact.

Dimensions: H 85 x W 30 x D 24 cm.