16th–17th Century Spanish Polychrome Wood Sculpture – Christ at the Column (18”)
This is an antique Spanish polychrome wood sculpture depicting Christ at the Column, dating to approximately c. 1580–1650. Carved from a single block of hardwood and finished with traditional gesso, bole, and polychrome pigments, the figure is characteristic of late Renaissance to early Baroque devotional works from the Castile or Aragon regions of Spain. The sculpture shows Christ bound at the column, rendered with deep anatomical carving, expressive facial detail, and remnants of original polychrome layers. Red bole underlayers, period craquelure, and natural age wear are consistent with 16th–17th century Spanish ecclesiastical carving. Overall good antique condition for its age. Expected wear to polychrome surfaces, small losses, and abrasions throughout. Stable cracks consistent with aged wood. No modern repaint observed under visible inspection. Approximately 18 inches tall. This is a genuine historic devotional object with strong presence and displays well. Suitable for collectors of European religious art, Spanish colonial sculpture, and Old Master period artifacts.
Height: 18 inches (45.7 cm) Width: approx. 6–7 inches Depth: approx. 5–6 inches
Online Auction
Yes
Hi Adam,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
Your description of this is pretty spot on - there's not much I can add other than to say most polychromed carved wood figures have not been selling for much recently - unless these are attributed to a particular artist or school of artists they usually sell for less than $1,000, with those with noted provenance realizing towards the higher side of that range - and ones that have lower estimates usually generating the most interest and bidding activity. At auction, I would expect this to sell for between $300- $500 or $400-600 but would not be surprised if it went for quite a bit higher.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
A Spanish style carved and polychromed figure of Christ at the Column
probably 16th or 17th Century
The figure, standing in contrapposto on a circular base, wearing arm bracelets or manacles and a loin cloth, with traces of paint overall.
18 inches overall height
CONDITION: With wear and losses commensurate to age and use.
PROVENANCE: Online auction
$300-600*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia
