Almsgiver In Carved And Polychrome Wood, Tuscany Second Half Of The 17th Century.

A rare almsgiver chest in carved wood with original polychromy and gilding.
The polygonal structure is punctuated by molded pilasters with shell capitals and crowned by a projecting upper cornice pierced by a slit for the insertion of offerings. The rear door retains its original hinges and wrought iron fittings.
The current key is likely from a later period.
The panels present a coherent Carmelite iconographic program, in which one can clearly recognize:
- The Virgin of Mount Carmel with the Child, in the gesture of presenting the scapulars, the center of devotion of the Carmelite Order;
- A Carmelite saint holding a cross and a book, highly likely to be identified as Saint Simon Stock, a figure traditionally linked to the spread of the scapular and frequently associated with the Virgin of Mount Carmel;
- A Carmelite figure in a penitential pose at the foot of the Cross, depicted in meditation with a skull at her side, embodies an ascetic typology of intense spirituality.
The polychromy retains significant traces of its original state: dark backgrounds, warm flesh tones, the Virgin's lacquered red mantle, and partial antique gilding that enriches the overall design. Natural wear testifies to its history and liturgical use.

The general state of preservation is more than satisfactory, despite the absence of a portion of the profile of the base on the side between the figure of Saint Simon Stock and the Virgin of Mount Carmel. The profile, however, is well preserved beneath the scene of the saint in adoration. Two openings are also visible laterally and in the upper part, suggesting the former presence of a chain or metal handle, probably used for carrying during alms collection.

Based on the quality of its sculpture, its formal organization, and its decorative features, this work dates to central Italy—the region of Siena or Arezzo — of the second half of the 17th century.
An object of great character and rare iconographic coherence, it constitutes a significant example of Baroque convent production intended for the collection of offerings, combining practical function with intense devotional value.

Dimensions: h. 17 x w. 15 x d. 11.3 cm.