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Figure of a Female Saint
Southern Netherlandish (Malines)
Medieval (Gothic)
about 1510–
Medium/Technique
Wood with polychromy and gilding; some later painting, gilding and varnish
Dimensions
Overall: 37 x 12 x 7.5 cm (14 9/16 x 4 3/4 x 2 15/16 in.)
Credit Line
Bequest of Forsyth Wickes—The Forsyth Wickes Collection
Accession Number65.2230
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsEurope
ClassificationsSculpture
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.
Marks
Carved in middle back of figure: \II\; circular stamp in black on bottom of base inscribed: DOUANES PAYS BAS (center of inscription illegible); adhesive sticker inscribed: 12263.1/Wickes.
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.