Originally listed at $450

Central America, possibly Mexico, Spanish Colonial period, ca. 19th century CE. A hand-carved wooden santo of Saint Isidore the Farmer or San Isidro Labrador depicted with glass eyes, a metal halo, and in traditional iconography: dressed as a peasant with an angel and white oxen. San Isidro was a simple farmer who, following an epiphany, took time to pray and commune with God while working in his master's fields. When Isidore's fellow laborers complained that he was neglecting his work, Isidore's master came to the fields to observe him. He was amazed to see Isidore, kneeling in prayer, while angels plowed the fields for him. The patron saint of farmers, Isidore was known for his love of animals and the poor. He was widely venerated throughout the colonial Spanish Empire and in Mexico the city of San Ysidro is named for him. Size: 5.8" W x 19" H (14.7 cm x 48.3 cm)

Santos played an important role in bringing the Catholic Church to the New World with the Spanish colonists. These religious figures were hand-carved and often furnished with crowns, jewels, and other accessories, usually funded by religious devotees, and were used as icons to explain the major figures - Mary, Christ, and the saints - to new, indigenous converts. Likewise, they served as a connection to the Old World for Spanish colonists far from home. They became a folk art tradition in the Spanish New World, from modern day Guatemala to as far north as New Mexico and Colorado. Many of them were lovingly cared for over the years, with repairs and paint added as they aged, and played an active part for a long time in the religious life of their communities.

Provenance: ex-Keith Stanley collection, Professor Emeritus of Classical Studies at Duke University, North Carolina, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#174700

Missing proper left forearm of Isidore, as well as forearms, feet, and plow of angel. Oxen and angel are detachable. Some bending to halo and stable hairline fissures to wood along with expected nicks and abrasions. Nice remaining pigments and light patina throughout.