Presented in this lot is a Spanish Handcarved Wood Santo Saint Barbara Folk Art, circa early to mid 20th century. Included are a Saint Barbara statuette (one of the "Holy Helpers" and patron saint of firefighters, miners and artillerymen). According to early Christian tradition, her pagan father imprisoned her in a tower. When she secretly converted to Christianity, he had her tortured and ultimately beheaded. Immediately following her execution, her father was struck dead by lightning. 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 of Saint Barbara, though missing it's hands, is in amazingly well preserved condition. Measures 15"H x 4"W x 3.75"D, weight is 2lb, 8oz.