**Originally Listed At $650**

New World, Mexico, Spanish Colonial, ca. early 19th century CE. A hand-carved figure of the Virgin Mary, dressed in flowing white robes with carefully carved folds, and a blue, pink, and yellow cloak thrown over her shoulder. She stands atop a cloud, with angelic faces studded in it, that floats atop a tiered wooden pedestal. This figure was made to be set into a nicho. Size: 4.5" L x 5.5" W x 15" H (11.4 cm x 14 cm x 38.1 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 Francis & Lilly Robicsek Collection, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, acquired second half of the 20th century

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#120432

Fine craquelure. Some losses to paint and overpainting as shown. Wax in areas used for attaching accessories. Losses to arms and face. Excellent aged surface.