Polychrome Terracotta Baby Jesus With Glass Eyes On A Gilded Base – 19th Century

Polychrome terracotta Baby Jesus with glass eyes on a gilded base – 19th century

A fine and evocative devotional sculpture depicting the Infant Jesus, crafted from finely modeled and polychromed terracotta, embellished with luminous glass eyes that lend the gaze extraordinary expressive depth and rare emotional intensity.

The face, delicately sculpted and characterized by soft, rosy cheeks and refined curly hair, reveals the high quality of the craftsmanship and the artist’s sensitivity.

The elegant and natural pose, with arms outstretched in a gesture of blessing and welcome, gives the figure a striking stage presence.


The Child wears a sumptuous ruby-colored velvet robe, embellished with precious trimmings and golden braids that enhance the work’s solemn and regal character.

The figure stands on a wooden base covered in embossed brass, richly decorated with ornamental motifs and winged angel heads at the two front corners, in the Baroque style, which enhance its elegance and decorative value.

Originally intended for the private devotion of an aristocratic family or for the decoration of a domestic chapel, this sculpture stands as a significant testament to the tradition of Italian sacred art between the 19th and early 20th centuries, when the pursuit of realism and emotional engagement found its highest expression in devotional imagery.

Materials: polychrome terracotta, glass eyes, velvet, gilded trimmings, carved and gilded wood.

Period: 19th century.

Dimensions: height 36.5 cm including base—31 cm without base—width 18.5 cm

Provenance: Italy.

Condition: excellent overall state of preservation; slight, natural signs of aging that attest to its authenticity and historical value.

A work of remarkable charm and collectible quality, ideal for major collections of sacred art, religious antiques, and prestigious residences.