Antique Guatemalan Hand Carved & Painted Horse Folk Art Sculpture

Description

A most charming hand carved and painted wooden horse folk art sculpture with beautifully aged original patina, dating to the … more A most charming hand carved and painted wooden horse folk art sculpture with beautifully aged original patina, dating to the early 20th century, Latin America, Central America, Guatemala. circa 1920

The elegant and whimsical large solid wood carving, features primitive handmade craftsmanship, depicted in stylized equine form, the statue mounted standing, resting atop a single board plank base, rising on three legs, one leg slightly lifted and forward giving a sense of movement, perhaps used to signify its rider was wounded in battle.

Original layers of organically distressed and worn white and black pigment decorate this lovely animal, accented by brownish tail with hand hewn and sculpted tool marks adding to the rich antique character, unique artistic depth and overall elegant warmth.

In Guatemala animals have been regarded as sacred in some religious practices and throughout ancient mythology, as well as a main source of symbolism. Works such as this inspired later works including the mythical creatures known as Mexican Alebrijes and Oaxacan Animalitos.

Provenance / Acquisition:
A reputable high-end auction house with locations along the east coast and Dallas, Texas; from a well curated, private Greenwich, Connecticut estate. Additionally procured a similarly styled menagerie of animals, Latin American origin, from the same CT estate.

Dimensions: (approx)
12" High, 12” Wide, 3.5” Deep less