Sculptor of 18th/19th Century, Figure of St. John the Baptist

This monumental wood sculpture, dating from the late 18th or early 19th century, depicts St. John the Baptist. The figure is presented standing on a rounded base, with an expressive face and a contemplative gaze. St. John is shown in his traditional attire of a simple robe with a rich, stylized drape, holding a book, a symbol of the Gospels, in his left hand.
The sculptor’s skill is evident in the dynamic and deeply carved folds of the drapery, a hallmark of the late Baroque and Neoclassical periods. The figure’s imposing size and strong, defined features underscore its devotional purpose, likely for a church or a prominent religious setting. The weathered polychrome finish attests to its age and history. This sculpture is a testament to the enduring tradition of religious art in Germany. Carved and polychrome wood. Height 155 cm