A late 16th century French carved oak figure of Anthony of Egypt The saint depicted with flowing beard, holding a book in his true left hand, his cloaked gown with a tau cross, with traces of polychrome, 106cm high, 34cm wide, 23cm deep approximately Footnotes: The present carved figure of Saint Anthony Abbot is thought to have formed part of a series of four niche figures in the abbey church of Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye, on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. The figures were removed during the latter part of the 19th century. Like figures intended for niches, the present lot has a typical hollowed reverse. Saint Anthony, widely regarded as the founder of Christian Monasticism was widely venerated during the Medieval period. He was the patron saint of animals and pets. The Hospital Brothers of St Anthony, who cared for the sick and pilgrims, wore a black habit marked with the distinctive tau cross. The relics of Saint Anthony were regarded as having healing powers, particularly against diseases of the skin. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing