Antique Sicilian Polychrome Wood Processional Bust Of Saint Agatha, 17th-18th Century

A striking antique Sicilian processional bust of Saint Agatha, carved in wood with polychrome decoration, dating from the 17th-18th century.

The young saint is depicted with long dark hair and an upward, contemplative gaze, her sensitively modelled face enhanced by inset glass eyes. She wears a grey-blue bodice with a deliberately low neckline revealing one breast.

This distinctive iconography identifies the figure as Saint Agatha of Sicily, virgin and martyr and patron saint of Catania. According to tradition, Saint Agatha suffered the mutilation of her breasts during her martyrdom, and the breast consequently became one of her principal attributes in Christian art.

The sculpture has a wonderfully evocative devotional character, enhanced by the age and wear of the surviving polychromy.

Sicily, 17th-18th century.

Mounted on a later black marble socle.

Height: 46 cm overall, including the later 5 cm marble socle.
Height of bust: approximately 41 cm.

Condition: Good condition, with wear and losses to the polychromy, as clearly illustrated in the photographs.

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