Pair of Small 18th Century Carved Oak Statues from France

This pair of small hand-carved oak statues measure only 13 inches high (33 cm), and were likely originally, part of a larger structure. Oak was the predominate wood used for making furniture up through the 1700’s. The wood grain is considered beautiful, and it is a strong and sturdy wood, meaning that products will last for centuries. However, these same traits make it rather difficult to carve. Despite this fact, the statues are presented with great detail, proving the carver highly skilled.

Both figures are wearing long, flowing robes that hang off the left shoulder. The carver took great care to show the folds of the fabrics as they contour to the characters’ bodies. The figures are depicted as shoeless and kneeling on stylized clouds. Both figures are depicted genuflecting on their right knee, indicating that they are praying or paying respect to a sacrament. Both statues have small holes in their backs, indicating that the figures were probably winged angels at one point. Beneath the stylized clouds, are short square plinths made in pine, with a small hole in the center, indicating this is where they were affixed to another element.

These beautifully carved antique French oak statues can now be displayed on any table, shelf, or in a vitrine.

CONDITION: Old varnish, nicks, losses, and age splits as seen in photos.

H - 13, W - 6 1/4, D - 7 1/2