Antique 18C Santa Fe Folk Art Christ Figure Salvador Mundi Polychrome Wood

  

Exceptional Antique 18th Century Santa Fe Folk Art "Salvador Mundi" Christ Figure. Discover a profound piece of history and art with this rare antique 18th-century New Mexican folk art sculpture, depicting a "Salvador Mundi" (Savior of the World) Christ figure.

Hand-carved and beautifully hand-painted with polychrome gesso overlay, this devotional sculpture offers a tangible connection to the Spanish Colonial period of the American Southwest. This deeply spiritual sculpture presents a seated Christ figure, adorned in shades of blue, with a raised left hand in a blessing gesture. The other upright palm suggests the traditional iconography of a "Salvador Mundi, " where the figure once held a globe representing the world. Features articulated hands, a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the period.

Crafted from carved wood with a rich polychrome gesso overlay, showcasing authentic 18th-century techniques. The paint surface displays beautiful age-appropriate cracking, adding to its authentic antique character and patina. Stands on a modern black-colored wood base that perfectly complements its historical significance. Measures 15" H x 5 ½" W x 4 ½ D, an impressive and substantial size for display.

In good to fair antique collectible condition, with a few areas of loss and surface cracking, entirely consistent with its significant age, history, and natural material composition. Please examine all photographs thoroughly, as they form an integral part of the condition report. A rare and authentic example of 18th-century Santa Fe folk art, stemming directly from the rich Spanish Colonial traditions of what is now New Mexico.

Devotional figures like this "Salvador Mundi" are highly sought after by collectors of religious art, colonial artifacts, and Southwestern Americana. Its age and style offer a unique glimpse into the artistic and spiritual heritage of the region. This piece embodies the distinctive stylistic characteristics of early New Mexican santos (saints) and religious carvings, known for their expressive simplicity and profound spiritual resonance. The hand-carved wood and polychrome gesso demonstrate traditional artisan techniques passed down through generations. The age-cracking on the paint surface (craquelure) adds to its aesthetic appeal, highlighting its genuine antiquity. Antique devotional figures from the Spanish Colonial period, particularly those identified with specific iconography like "Salvador Mundi, " represent significant historical and artistic value. Pieces of this age and regional origin are increasingly rare and are considered cornerstone items for serious collectors of American folk art and religious antiquities. Owning such a piece offers not only a connection to a profound past but also a tangible asset with enduring cultural importance. Embrace the opportunity to own a truly remarkable piece of 18th-century American religious folk art. This "Salvador Mundi" Christ figure will be a treasured centerpiece in any distinguished collection.