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We offer you this magnificent statue of Saint Paul, apostle of fire and light, frozen for eternity in solid oak by the inspired hand of an 18th-century sculptor.
Standing an imposing 137 cm tall, this exceptional figure—entirely hand-carved in oak—embodies the spiritual power and nobility of sacred art at its zenith.
The apostle, draped in a majestic toga, firmly holds a real sword of forged metal, a symbol of the Word of God cutting through error and darkness. In his other hand, he holds the Book of Epistles, a vibrant reminder of his evangelizing mission.
An apostle at the heart of the ancient world
Born in Tarsus, Paul of Tarsus, initially a persecutor of Christians, was transformed by grace on the road to Damascus. From this profound revelation was born a new man: the tireless evangelist, the traveler of souls, the one who carried the word of Christ to the farthest reaches of the Roman Empire.
This statue depicts him as he was venerated at the end of the 18th century: solemn, inspired, holding the sword of faith and the book of wisdom. His deep beard, his intense eyes, and his noble bearing convey the fervor and inner strength that characterize the saint of conversions.
A masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship
Created around 1780-1790, this sculpture testifies to the mastery of church sculptors at the end of the Ancien Régime.
The oak, chosen for its solidity and majesty, was carved, polished, and worked with admirable finesse.
The surface retains the moving remnants of its original polychromy, whose softened hues tell the story of over two centuries of history and devotion.
Every fold of the cloak, every contour of the face, every detail of the hand bears witness to a profoundly spiritual art, where faith and beauty intertwine.
A living and sovereign presence
With its striking sculptural presence, this work seems inhabited. Its size – 137 cm – lends it a rare charisma: neither too monumental for a private interior, nor too modest for a chapel or exhibition space.
The metal sword, perfectly integrated into the right hand, gives it a theatrical and symbolic dimension, while the patina of the old wood interacts with the rigor of the metal, uniting the softness of oak and the strength of iron.
Characteristics
Subject: Saint Paul the Apostle
Period: Late 18th century (circa 1780–1790)
Material: Hand-carved solid oak
Height: 137 cm (53.9 in)
Features: Original metal sword, carved wooden book
Condition: Very good overall condition, with traces of age and original polychromy
Provenance: Private collection
A work for a collector, private chapel, or gallery
This statue is much more than an object of art: it is a testament to faith and remembrance. It will find its place in a sacred art collection, a grand hall, a study, or a gallery dedicated to antique works.
Its inherent nobility and universal symbolism make it a centerpiece for prestigious décor, at the crossroads of the spiritual and the aesthetic.
Shipping & Presentation
Highly secure transport, custom-made professional packaging.
International shipping available
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