Saint Florian, polychrome poplar wood, Central Europe, 18th century

Description Polychrome wooden sculpture from the center depicting Saint Florian. Saint Florian is depicted as a Roman soldier holding a bucket extinguishing a fire on a burning cathedral. In the 15th century, Saint Florian was attributed with patronage and protection against fires. In popular iconography, he is distinguished by a bucket of water, in the act of saving a building from flames. The cult of the Saint was widespread in Austria and neighboring countries: Hungary, Slovakia, Northern Italy. Similar baroque sculptures, always of monumental dimensions, with ancient Roman style clothing and abundant gilding, can be seen in the museum in Budapest. Dimensions HxWxD 89.5cm x 34cm x 29cm Provenance Private collection Conditions Defects, missing parts and restorations.