Articulated Procession Figure Or "capipote," 17th-century France.

A rare articulated processional figure (or "capipote") carved from wood and painted in multiple colors, designed to be dressed. The figure features a head carved with great finesse, brought to life by a remarkably expressive face. The particularly meticulous rendering of the facial features, beard, and hair contrasts with the deliberately more understated construction of the body, which was intended to accommodate the figure’s clothing and ornaments.The articulated limbs attest to the work’s ceremonial function and made it possible to dress the figure and display it during processions. These figures, whose final appearance depended largely on the clothing and accessories that accompanied them, offer unique insights into devotional practices and religious art during the Ancien Régime.Due to its age, its substantial size, and the expressive quality of its carved head, this processional mannequin offers a rare example of 17th-century French polychrome sculpture.France, 17th century; Carved and polychromed wood; Height of the figure: 56.5 cm; Total height with base: 61 cm; Rear display base