San Juan; Spanish School, first half of the 18th century

Saint John; Spanish School, first half of the 18th century
Carved, gilded, and polychromed wood
The polychrome paint is missing in places
Measurements: 28 x 10.5 x 6 cm.

The apostle is depicted standing, characterized by a youthful, beardless face and long hair falling over his shoulders. He wears a reddish tunic cinched with a gold belt and a cloak with a profuse floral pattern on a dark background, gathered in his hand. The back is completely flat, designed for architectural mounting.

The flat reverse clearly indicates that the carving was not intended as a freestanding image, but rather as an element of an altarpiece. During the Spanish Baroque period of the first half of the 18th century, this type of piece formed part of the masonry work of altarpieces, integrated into side niches, coffers, or flanking main scenes (such as the Calvary in the attic or in the side aisles of the main body of the altarpiece). The technique of gilding allowed the sculptor to recreate the dazzling effect of rich brocade fabrics under the light of the candles in churches.