New World, Mexico, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A tall, hand-carved wooden santo depicting St. Anthony of Padua. He has a calm expression and looks forward at the viewer; his upper arms are draped to his sides and, though partial, once displayed lower arms which would have held some implements. His robes are simple, tied at the waist in the traditional Franciscan style with a rope with one upper knot and two smooth lower sections representative of knots which altogether represent poverty, chastity, and obedience. St. Anthony was a Portuguese Franciscan priest and friar who died in Padua. Despite being born into a wealthy family, he was known for his intense devotion to the poor and sick, and holds the distinction of being canonized most quickly of all the saints. He is also known as the patron saint of lost things - objects, people, and souls. Size: 5.5" W x 14.2" H (14 cm x 36.1 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: private California, USA collection

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#134951

Head reattached at neck to neck recession. Loss to both lower arms. Small nicks to base, body, vestments, and head, with stable fissures along base, with fading to some finer features, and a few drilled holes throughout for attachable accessories. Light earthen deposits and great brown patina throughout.