Very finely carved antique European wooden Santos head depicting the Madonna, circa 1840s to 1890s. The head is beautifully hand carved and painted and its original glass eyes remain, a rarity in Santos heads and statues of this age. The paint is overall in good condition; her painted hairstyle is intact despite the reflective glare in some photos.
Such Santos figures were popular in Catholic countries such as Italy and Spain, and were also venerated in various countries that were historically influenced and/or colonised by them. This particular head was sourced from an reputable antique dealer in Manila, the Philippines. European religious relics such as this Santos head, dating from the Spanish colonial period, were passed down through the generations as objects of worship.
Price marked at $2000 AUD.
Measurements: 26cm high, 16cm diameter (incl the ears) at widest point.
Overall good antique condition, particularly for timber Santos heads of this age. Wear and stable cracks to eyes, wear to wood and paint as pictured.
