Pair of Baroque altarpiece elements. Spain, last third of the XVII century.

Pair of Baroque altarpiece elements. Spain, last third of the seventeenth century.
Carved, gilded and polychrome wood.
They have wooden base of later period
They present faults and Repainting
Measurements: 163 x 77 x 29 cm; 35 x 62 x 36 cm (bases)

This pair of altarpiece elements, of evident baroque taste, is finely worked in carved, polychrome and gilded wood, showing a careful attention to detail and an exaltation of the ornamentation typical of this style. Each element has at its base the figure of a small angel, carved with expressiveness and tenderness, characteristic of baroque cherubs. Their rounded and delicately polychrome faces convey a sense of innocence and devotion.
Above the head of each angel is a golden cornucopia, symbol of abundance and fertility, which shines brightly thanks to its golden finish. The cornucopia features an ornate design, twisting in exuberant scrolls and curves, as dictated by baroque principles of dynamism and opulence. At the center of each cornucopia is an "ova," a classic oval-shaped decoration, which harkens back to the symmetrical and symbolically rich compositions of the period. This central detail adds a focal point to each piece, capturing the eye and accentuating the golden beauty of the cornucopia.
These retablo pieces not only serve a decorative function in the religious context, but are also a reflection of the devotion and splendor of Baroque sacred art. Their complex elaboration and the combination of polychromy and gilding reflect the baroque eagerness to capture attention and provoke astonishment, transmitting a message of exaltation of faith and beauty as a divine manifestation. The presence of angels and symbols of abundance in these pieces seeks to connect the earthly with the heavenly, making them not only decorative elements, but also objects of deep spirituality and veneration.
These types of works have been in great demand as part of architectural spaces of a religious nature. They were common in the Spanish Baroque period. From this time on, and with numerous decorative variations, they became a characteristic element of architecture. Designed to be placed behind or above the altars of churches, retablos could be composed of painted panels, sculptures or both. They were intended to astound the congregation with striking images from biblical history. Those consisting of folding panels were kept closed for most of the year and were only fully revealed on special occasions such as Easter and Christmas.