Spanish school; second half of the 19th century.

Spanish school; second half of the XIX century.
"Saint Joseph and the Virgin.
Polychrome carved wood.
Measurements: 71 x 22 x 18 cm; 72 x 22 x 21 x 21 cm.
These 19th century Spanish sculptures represent the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph, both made in polychrome wood. The figure of the Virgin shows a serene face and an attitude of recollection with her hands crossed on her chest, dressed in a red tunic and blue mantle adorned with golden borders, which emphasize her purity and holiness. Saint Joseph, at her side, appears with a pious expression, wearing a brown tunic and an ochre mantle also decorated with golden details, with one hand raised in a gesture of blessing or teaching. Both wear haloes, emphasizing their sacred character.
These sculptures are representative of the religious art of the 19th century, a period in which popular devotion was still central to daily life in Spain. The production of sacred images was linked to the promotion of faith in a context marked by social and political changes, such as disentailment and tensions between Church and State. These figures served as vehicles for devotion in churches, chapels and homes, reaffirming spiritual values in a time of uncertainty.