Folk Art Guatemalan orders Santos, Vintage 1940-50, Hand Carved, Painted Wood, Rustic Art, Catholic Saint Sculpture

In Colonial times the artisans of small villages across Guatemala created hand carved and painted sculptures of Catholic saints. Following generations of artists copied these original designs. Even today tourists can purchase reproductions in the marketplace.

This rustic “santo” is from the 1940s to 1950s. The artist carved a distinctive face with piercing eyes. One powerful hand holds orders a wooden bible, the other beckons his followers. A hand carved robe flows around his shoulders. The back of the robe features a wonderful hand painted design of silver stripes and red dots. He wears a classic priest headdress.

The saint stands on a painted wooden platform. He measures 15 1/2 inches tall, 4 inches at the widest and weighs 1 lb, 8 oz.

This santos is a superb example of vintage wood carving from Guatemala. It would be a splendid addition to your folk-art collection or give it to a friend who enjoys primitive art.