994 - Saint Francis Xavier. Spanish-Philippine Colonial School. 18th century

Saint Francis Xavier. Spanish-Philippine Colonial School. 18th century Carved from polychrome and gilded wood. Measures 35 x 16 x 8 cm. This small-scale sculpture depicts a Jesuit saint, likely Saint Francis Xavier, dressed in a cassock and surplice decorated with ornamental gilded motifs. The figure is positioned as if preaching or giving a blessing, with his right arm extended and his gaze directed toward the viewer, emphasizing his role as an evangelist. The linear rendering of the folds, the anatomical simplification, and the remaining polychromy and gilding reflect styles developed in colonial workshops influenced by Hispanic art in Asia. The decoration applied to the garment adds visual richness and demonstrates the local adaptation of European Baroque styles. The piece is notable for its ethnographic, religious, and historical significance, serving as a representative example of Spanish-Philippine colonial sculpture linked to the expansion of Catholic missionary activity. Due to its age and history of use, this lot may show signs of wear and previous interventions. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, no specialized technical testing has been performed. The absence of any mention of restorations does not guarantee that none exist. You may request additional information before placing a bid. This does not affect the buyer’s statutory rights.