Code 409-15

Antique Fruitwood Statue of Patron Saint Nicolas

An 18th C. Fruitwood Statue of the Patron Saint Nicholas from France – Good Antique Condition Commensurate with age – Late 1700’s Early 1800’s –Old Restorations- Missing small portions, Crosier missing- rubs to wood.

Saint Nicholas is the common name for Nicholas of Myra, a saint and Bishop of Myra (Demre, in Lycia, part of modern-day Turkey).   Because of the many miracles attributed to his intercession, he is also known as Nicholas the Wonderworker.  He had a reputation for secret gift-giving, such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him and thus, became the model for Santa Claus, whose English name comes from the Dutch, Kinterklaas.

For his help to the poor, Nicholas is the patron saint of pawnbrokers; the three gold balls traditionally hung outside a pawnshop symbolize the three sacks of gold.  People then began to suspect that he was behind a large number of other anonymous gifts to the poor, using the inheritance from his wealthy parents.  After he died, people in the region continued to give to the poor anonymously and such gifts were still often attributed to St. Nicholas.*

This serene antique French statue of the Patron Saint Nicholas dates from the late 1700’s or early 1800’s and has been beautifully hand carved from European Fruitwood..  Religious statues are highly prized and collected throughout the world.

H=30 1/2

$4,600

Le Louvre Antiques

1400 Slocum Street

Dallas, TX  75207

214-742-2605    FAX: 214-742-2639

www.lelouvre-antiques.com

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