Antique Italian Carved Wood Religious Figure of Saint Anthony, 1830

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Italian Carved Wood Figure of Saint Anthony Abbot, circa 1830–1880 Material: Carved and painted wood A substantial 19th-century Italian hand-carved … Read more Italian Carved Wood Figure of Saint Anthony Abbot, circa 1830–1880 Material: Carved and painted wood A substantial 19th-century Italian hand-carved wooden figure of Saint Anthony Abbot, also known as Saint Anthony the Great, dating from circa 1830–1880. The figure is ecclesiastical in character and is understood to have originated from a church setting. Carved by hand from wood, it retains its original painted decoration, giving the surface considerable historic character. Saint Anthony Abbot was one of the early Christian hermits and is regarded as an important figure in the development of Christian monasticism. His cult became particularly widespread in Italy, where he was traditionally associated with rural communities, the protection of domestic animals and healing. Standing 25 inches high, the sculpture has substantial proportions and weighs approximately 8 kg. The figure separates into two sections. Paperwork is displayed beneath glass on the piece. The glass and associated presentation appear to have been replaced or added at a later date. A characterful example of 19th-century Italian religious sculpture, retaining its original painted surface and reflecting the longstanding Italian devotional tradition surrounding Saint Anthony Abbot. Dimensions: Height: 25 inches (63.5 cm) Width at widest point: 13 inches (33 cm) Depth at deepest point: 8 inches (20.3 cm) Weight: Approximately 8 kg (17.6 lb) Date of Manufacture: circa 1830–1880 Period: 19th Century Country of Origin: Italy See less