Holt Antiques at Walsingham Mill
Large 17th‑Century Italian Antique Reliquary Bust of Saint Nicholas – Carved Wooden Sculpture with Silver & Gold Gilding
Large 17th‑Century Italian Antique Reliquary Bust of Saint Nicholas – Carved Wooden Sculpture with Silver & Gold Gilding
Couldn't load pickup availability
A magnificent 17th‑century Italian reliquary bust of Saint Nicholas, finely carved in poplar wood and finished in silver and gold leaf — a traditional Italian technique that gives the surface its distinctive warm, metallic glow. The carving is of notably high quality, with expressive modelling, crisp drapery, and a powerful devotional presence.
Standing an impressive 76 cm high, this is a substantial ecclesiastical sculpture originally created to house and honour sacred relics. The bust form, with its serene facial expression and richly decorated vestments, reflects the Baroque devotional style found in Italian churches and monastic settings during the 1600s.
The surface retains its original silvered and gilded finish, now beautifully mellowed with age. The poplar wood — a favoured material in Italian religious sculpture — shows the gentle wear expected of a 17th‑century liturgical object.
A rare and imposing example of early Italian religious art, full of presence, history, and devotional character.
Provenance: Italy. 17th Century.
Material: Carved Poplar wood with gesso, polychrome, silver and gold leaf decoration.
Condition: Good. There is age-related surface wear. Please refer to the images which show the actual item.
Dimensions:
Height: 76 cm (29.9 inches)
Width: 37 cm (14.5 inches)
Depth: 24 cm (9.4 inches)
🚚✈️🚢 We ship worldwide!
You can buy with 100% confidence too!
We are a member of the following 4 Professional Associations:
1. LAPADA (London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association) – LAPADA is the UK’s largest trade association for professional art & antique dealers (representing approximately 500 UK dealer members). All items are backed by our LAPADA guarantee;
2. CINOA –Confédération Internationale des Négociants en Oeuvres d'Art, (or International Confederation of Art and Antique Dealers' Associations) is the world association of art & antique dealer associations (representing 5000 dealers from 32 associations in 22 countries);
3. The Norfolk & Suffolk Antique Dealers Association - Representing reputable, high quality antiques dealers based in Norfolk and Suffolk; and
4. FSB - Federation of Small Business.
Wish to purchase this item?
1. Buy online via this website; OR
2. Tel: 00 44 7551 383897 (line open 9.30 am to 5.30 pm Monday to Saturday UK time) where we can take payment over the phone.
Want further information about an item or wish to discuss shipping costs?
1. Email us via this website; OR
2. Email us via:
info@holtantiquefurniture.com
We will aim to respond and make contact with you within 24 hours of receipt of your enquiry.
🚚✈️🚢 Shipping & Customs Information
Please Note: Prices shown exclude customs clearance fees. Where applicable, these charges will be levied directly by your receiving courier, designated importer, or local government authority. These fees vary by destination and are the responsibility of the buyer. For guidance on potential charges, we recommend contacting your local customs office prior to purchase.
