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the statue of jesus holding a child in his armsa statue of a man holding a baby in his armsa figurine of a man holding a childfigurine of a man holding a baby and a dogstatue of a man holding a child in his armsan image of a statue of a woman in a red dress
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72 - Attributed to José Risueño (Granada, 1665 - 1732) “Saint Jos…

Estimate €3,000 - €6,000
Sale commission
Description
Attributed to José Risueño (Granada, 1665 - 1732) “Saint Joseph with the Christ Child” Polychrome and gilded terracotta sculpture. 39 x 28 x 18 cm. This charming devotional group depicts Saint Joseph tenderly carrying the sleeping Christ Child in his arms. Far removed from the more formal iconography traditionally associated with the saint, the composition emphasizes an intimate and profoundly human relationship between foster father and child. The Christ Child nestles trustingly against Saint Joseph’s chest, wrapping one arm around his neck while resting peacefully upon a delicately modelled cloth. Joseph’s upward gaze and softly animated expression convey both contemplation and paternal affection, creating a scene of remarkable warmth and emotional immediacy. The sculptural treatment displays a refined sensitivity characteristic of the Granadan Baroque tradition. Rich polychromy and gilded decoration enliven the saint’s garments, while the sweeping red mantle envelops the composition in a dynamic rhythm that enhances the sculpture’s visual unity. Particularly noteworthy is the naturalistic modelling of the Child and the subtle psychological interaction between the two figures, qualities that elevate the work beyond mere devotional imagery. Attribution In our opinion, the sculpture may plausibly be associated with José Risueño, one of the most distinguished masters of the Granadan Baroque. While no documentary evidence currently permits a definitive attribution, several stylistic features support a connection with Risueño’s artistic circle and aesthetic language. Among these are the tender emotional character of the group, the graceful facial types, the softly modelled anatomy of the Child, and the refined decorative treatment of the polychromy and gilding. The work also shares the intimate devotional spirit that distinguishes many of Risueño’s small-scale sculptures intended for private worship. Comparable representations of Saint Joseph and the Christ Child attributed to José Risueño are preserved in Spanish and international collections, where similar qualities of tenderness, intimacy, and refined craftsmanship can be observed. The present work belongs to this distinctly Granadan tradition, which sought to unite technical excellence with emotional immediacy and devotional accessibility. The enduring appeal of this sculpture lies not only in its technical accomplishment but also in its extraordinary humanity. Rather than presenting a distant sacred image, the artist offers a moving vision of paternal love, transforming a traditional religious subject into a universal expression of affection, protection, and trust.
About the sale Dialogues with the Past: Vestigia
Auction location
Auction time 07/02/2026 at 7:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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