Presented in this lot is an Antique Spanish Colonial Handcarved Wood Folk Art Santo, circa 19th century. The Santo is displayed standing with her left arm extended while clutching a bag with her right hand. This handcarved wood Santo features polychrome gesso overlay and displays intricate carving and detailing, especially of the facial features. Religious Spanish santos (Spanish for "saints") are hand-carved or painted devotional images representing the Virgin Mary, Jesus Christ, angels, or Catholic saints. Originating in Spain, this rich tradition of religious folk art spread throughout the former Spanish Empire, becoming deeply rooted in regions like New Mexico, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Central and South America and the Philippines. Traditionally created by local artisans known as santeros, these sacred objects were crafted for use in village churches, religious processions, and personal home altars (nichos). The core types of Santos fall into two distinct artistic categories: "bultos" which are three dimensional carves sculptures and "retablos" which are paintings on flat wood panels. This Santo is in amazingly well preserved condition, gesso and paint loss observed, painted designs on dress are remarkably quite visible, original gold gilt visible in places. Santo has detached from original gesso. Measures 13.5"H x 6"W x 4.5"D, weight is 1lb, 6oz.