An ornate French panel, hand-carved from oak, portrays Saint Nicholas, who was the inspiration for the legend of Santa Claus. Dating to the 1700s, Saint Nicholas is clad in a bishop’s mitre and a long, flowing robe while holding a crozier, which is a typical depiction of him in European art. An oval molding dotted with flowers encircles the saint, who is accompanied by three children in a barrel.

The narrative behind the children is quite grim, but an integral aspect of Saint Nicholas.

Numerous curled leaves embellish the rest of the rectangular panel, forming a lifelike lattice of vines. Four flowers grow from the center of whorls near each corner, while horizontal margents of acanthus leaves draw the viewer’s eyes directly to the center cartouche. Beneath the feet of Saint Nicholas is a tasseled drape textured with lozenge ground that connects the sprawling vines to the left and right of the center imagery.

Nicholas of Bari was born in 270 AD in Lycia et Pamphylia, part of the Roman Empire that would one day become Turkey. He is a patron saint to many, but his most well-known cause is advocating for children. Nicholas’ habit of secretly giving gifts became the basis for Sinterklaas, who in turn inspired the story of Santa Claus.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Commensurate age separations. Minor nicks and rubs, with very light losses. Two eyelets on the back for hanging purposes.