Antique Ambrogi santon Provençal woman coif hat vintage handcrafted figurine

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique santon depicts a Provençal woman in traditional dress, standing on a visible base. The figurine is signed Ambrogi, a renowned craftsman in the world of Santons de Provence. The piece features a large, rigid, braided-effect charcoal gray headdress, covering the head and framing a hand-painted face with fine, expressive features. A pastel floral-patterned scarf is tied under the chin, adding an extra touch of authenticity to the scene.

The figure wears a dark red, long-sleeved bodice and a long, bright blue fabric skirt, decorated with a regular pattern of small stylized flowers in yellow, green, and red tones. The waist is accentuated by a wide blue and white striped apron, tied at the waist, with its ends falling in front. In her arms, the santonnière holds a sheaf of stalks and branches, as well as a miniature black sickle, highlighting the agricultural theme and faithfulness to Provençal rural tradition.

The oval, brown base ensures good stability for the figurine. The traditional-style shoes are painted glossy black. Every detail, from the face to the attire, testifies to meticulous craftsmanship, typical of Ambrogi's productions. The colors are vibrant and contrasting, giving the whole a strong visual presence.

The exact materials are not explicitly stated, but the appearance suggests a mix of textile for the clothes and a sculpted and painted material for the face, hands, and base. The finish of the clothes, with visible seams and printed patterns, evokes the quality santons handcrafted in the Provençal tradition.

This model embodies the classic iconography of the Provençal peasant woman, identifiable by her agricultural attributes and regional costume. The mention "vintage" in the keywords is consistent with the aesthetic and manufacturing style, probably mid to late 20th century, although the exact period cannot be specified without further information.

Condition

Second-hand item, sold as is. The visible face shows no major apparent defects: the colors are well preserved, the clothes appear complete, and the face shows no visible cracks or chips. Some traces of wear or light rubbing may remain, typical of an old object handled with care.

Did you know? Santons de Provence appeared at the end of the 18th century, following the prohibition of public nativities during the French Revolution. Provençal families then began to make their own miniature clay and fabric figurines to represent nativity scenes and local rural life. Ambrogi is one of the renowned names in the santon tradition, perpetuating artisanal techniques specific to the region.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast professional shipping. Seller specializing in folk art and antique craftsmanship.

Keywords: santon Ambrogi, Provençal figurine, peasant woman, traditional hat, vintage santon, Provence craftsmanship, antique nativity, folk art figurine, old santon, Provence figurine, vintage French nativity, old santon France