Figure of a Female Saint
about 1510–
Medium/TechniqueWood with polychromy and gilding; some later painting, gilding and varnish
DimensionsOverall: 37 x 12 x 7.5 cm (14 9/16 x 4 3/4 x 2 15/16 in.)
Credit LineBequest of Forsyth Wickes—The Forsyth Wickes Collection
Accession number65.2230
On View
Not on viewClassificationsSculpture
Collections
This doll-like figure was set into a garden tableau, probably made for a convent. The saint's sweet features, graceful posture, and rhythmically flowing drapery are highlighted by paint and gilding, some of which is original-a rare survival.
ProvenanceAbout 1950s, H. Blairman and Sons, London; sold by Blairman to Forsyth Wickes (b. 1876 - d. 1964), New York and Newport, RI [see note 1]; 1965, bequest of Forsyth Wickes to the MFA. (Accession Date: December 24, 1965)
NOTES:
[1] The exact date that Mr. Wickes purchased the sculpture is not known. According to a letter from George Levy of H. Blairman and Sons to the MFA (June 5, 1990), it may have been in the 1950s.
NOTES:
[1] The exact date that Mr. Wickes purchased the sculpture is not known. According to a letter from George Levy of H. Blairman and Sons to the MFA (June 5, 1990), it may have been in the 1950s.
Unidentified artist, English, 15th century
15th century
about 1740
Porcelain: 1628–44, mounts: early 18th century