A large gilded and lacquered wooden bust of a saint or bishop, richly adorned in a gold‑leaf habit decorated with painted floral motifs. The figure is mounted on an elegant pedestal featuring a carved angel’s head and painted faux‑marble finish. The work displays the characteristic opulence of Baroque devotional sculpture, aligning with similar Italian and French ecclesiastical busts from the late 17th to early 18th century.
Comparable pieces from this period are typically attributed to workshops in Italy, especially in regions such as Veneto and Southern Italy, where gilded wooden statuary flourished. These busts often served as reliquary figures or liturgical ornaments, echoing the stylistic traits seen here: expressive carving, rich polychromy, and heavy gilding.
This example shows wear, losses, restorations, and old gilding, consistent with its age. Small flight holes are present, typical of antique wooden sculptures. Despite these historical traces, the bust retains remarkable visual impact and authenticity.
Dimensions
Height: 70 cm
Width: 35 cm
Depth: 16 cm
A striking and historically resonant devotional artwork, representative of Baroque craftsmanship and ideal for collectors of sacred art, period interiors, or refined decorative ensembles.
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