Kongo Bronze St. Anthony Figure African Sculpture Congo

Early Kongo St. Anthony of Padua Sculpture w/ Baby Jesus Figure and Cross
Antique Tribal Art - African Sculpture - Iconic Christian Statue - DRC, Congo Zaire

Collected from the: Kongo (Bakongo) peoples in the Atlantic Coast region of Zaire, Central Africa
Material: Bronze, early lost wax cast of copper/tin alloy
Period: 17th century, conservatively
Dimensions: 4" height, 1.25" width, 1.25" depth w/ loop, 1" base diameter; weight is 10.2 ounces
Condition: Pristine - no damage or repair; casting method and quality, surface condition, tool signatures, and refined metal content declare this the work of an early master caster, clearly intended for ritual tribal use; substantial calcification and verdigris suggest previous burial. This historically important, museum quality piece is an exceptionally rare find !

From a private Parisian collection, this early, exquisitely cast Christian relic remains completely intact and structurally sound. The distinct Portuguese Saint Anthony and African baby Jesus facial features, superior casting quality, minute surface imperfections (created from bubbles in the molten metal during the initial casting process, known as 'blow holes'), refined metal content and distinct lack of 'pot metal' (or iron) alloys all combine to suggest an extremely early period of creation. The glorious patina of time and use greatly enhance the personality of this delightful work; substantial calcification and verdigris suggest previous burial.

Please to fully appreciate this spectacular relic!