Pair of Neapolitan nativity angels, terracotta santons, sculptures, Naples, 19th century
Articles
Pair of Neapolitan nativity angels (characters known as Neapolitan santon*) in polychrome terracotta, with multicoloured wings, from Naples - Italy, 19th century
These angels are in good overall condition, in their original condition. Superb quality.
Please note: one angel is missing a finger (see red arrows), some scratches, dirt, stains and wear from time, take a good look at the photos. A file of additional detailed photos is available for download below.
We have other Neapolitan santons for sale on this site.
Neapolitan nativity scenes are very different from those seen in churches due to the importance of secular scenes. They are not limited to depicting the nativity, the baby Jesus surrounded by the holy family, but are vast compositions with abundant decorations and multiple characters, often involving the best artists.
Its spectacular character and scenographic richness are only possible thanks to the activity of several artists and craftsmen (architects, sculptors, painters, goldsmiths, ceramists, tailors, etc.). Indeed, thanks to their imagination, they managed to reproduce the daily life of the Neapolitans of the 17th and 18th centuries. The elegance of the figuration and the finesse of execution of these santons also reveals the quality of the know-how of the Neapolitan artisans. The market, the hostelry, the dances, the street vendors, the beggars, the tavern, the various trades, the guarding of the flocks, the royal procession, and everything that was within the reach of everyday life or fantasy, had its place in the Neapolitan nativity scenes testifies to the richness and variety of this artisanal production.