Beautiful antique French Provençal 'Santibèlli'. This religious figurine made of terracotta-like 'santons' and is very popular in the South of France. Precious statuettes like these were once sold in the streets of Marseilles by Italian peddlers; hence, their name comes from Italy, which means 'beautiful saints'. This lovely antique piece of the Virgin with Child was thought to bring divine protection. Perfect to display as a precious collectibles piece. The left fore arm is missing but I can see no other defects. It measures 14" tall and is 5" wide at the base.
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