Santos dolls are closely related to the Crèche figures, which were implemented in Italy by St Francis of Assisi during the 13th century. However, the Crèche are primarily associated with Italian and French nativity and crib scenes. Crèche scenes are still elaborately displayed throughout Italy and in parts of France, most notably in Provence.
The New World European Santos dolls were also brought to the Latin Americas during the Colonial age of Spain's settling of The New World. Many of these original dolls, along with the art that inspired them, were destroyed while trying to settle the West. Therefore, antiques in good shape are rare and very expensive. It is not uncommon to see an antique Santos bring 4 and 5 digit figures. In more recent years, fine and folk art has emerged to replace these dolls. Santos dolls are designed and created by "Santeros" or "Santonniers" (loosely 'saint maker'). As the art form has progressed, the Santos has become recognized as a true artistic doll. Some dolls are rustic carvings, while others have magnificent details. Santos, particularly the females, exhibit a most loving expression that is also complex and thoughtful. Their shape is often rustic in nature, yet with delicate details. The dolls emulate the image of Christ, The Virgin Mary, Patron Saints, as well as other notable figures in biblical history. There are very few original Santos Dolls still around. If found, they run in the thousands of dollar range. Still an art today, very nice reproductions are usually made of wood and resin (for the detailing of the faces and hands) and often hand-made or hand-painted. *article from the Santos Cage Doll website Shop W O L F H O M E FOR Santos Cage Dolls
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W O L F H O M EMy mother (Bea) and my aunt (Bobbie) would take my sister and I around to all the shops and flea markets. As a child, I'd be more inclined to say I was dragged around. They'd stop and look at EVERYTHING while I'd find the closest chair to sit and wait - or sleep. ArchivesCategories |