Bidspirit auction | Angel with Book in Carved

Angel with Book in Carved Wood – Ligurian (Genoese) Manufacture 58 cm - Refined round wooden sculpture depicting a winged putto, a ”pendant” to the previous example and an integral part of the same Ligurian sacred decorative apparatus. The work stands out for the high quality of the carving and the presence of an open book (missal) held with both arms, a detail that underlines its original liturgical and didactic function. Artistic and Iconographic Analysis: The Inscription: The angel holds a book bearing the painted Latin inscription: ”SI QUAERIS MIRACULA / MORS ERROR CALAMITAS”, part of the celebrated responsory to Saint Anthony of Padua. The handwriting, in black characters with red initials, is typical of Baroque sacred calligraphy. Ligurian Style: Like its companion, this putto also presents the distinctive characteristics of the Genoese school: a rounded face with parted lips, plastic curly hair, and a dynamic pose suggesting an original elevated placement. Execution: The carving is vigorous and reveals a great mastery of volumes, especially in the rendering of the feet and feathered wings. The green drapery wrapping the legs creates a chromatic contrast with the flesh tones and wings, despite the natural wear of the polychromy. Technical Sheet: Origin: Liguria (Genoese School). Material: Carved wood with traces of original polychromy and handwritten inscriptions. Dimensions: Height 58 cm Period: Late 17th - early 18th century. Condition: Very good for the period; the structure is solid; the polychromy and the inscription on the book show a fascinating patina of time that guarantees its historical authenticity.