Vintage Jouglas Santon de Provence Traditional Clay Figurine 25cm

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This Provencal santon depicts an elderly woman in traditional costume, crafted by the Jouglas workshop, a renowned artisan from the region. The figurine features an expressive, hand-painted face with a rosy complexion and meticulous details on the cheeks and facial features. The character wears a white coif tied under the chin, adorned with a delicate pattern and fine lace, as well as a pastel geometric patterned shawl over her shoulders.

The outfit consists of a vivid blue long-sleeved bodice, a multicoloured checkered apron, and a long red floral patterned skirt, typical of Provencal costumes. The santon holds a woven wicker basket in her right hand and a small colander or skimmer suspended by a string in her left, emblematic accessories of rural life in Provence.

The visible base is rounded, with a terracotta-like finish, ensuring the stability of the figurine. The entire piece demonstrates great fidelity to traditional costumes and accessories, with particular attention paid to fabric textures, clothing drape, and the natural posture of the figurine.

The face is expressive, with a slightly glossy finish on the clay, characteristic of artisanal santons. The details of the hands, basket, and skimmer attest to the savoir-faire of Jouglas, renowned for the quality of their large santons.

This model is signed, as indicated in the keywords, a guarantee of authenticity and artisanal provenance. The height of 25 cm, specified in the title, corresponds to a sought-after size for decoration or a Provencal nativity scene.

Condition

Second-hand item sold as is. The surface shows a homogeneous patina, some minor signs of wear and tear are visible on the base and clothing, with no major apparent missing parts on the visible side.

Did you know? Provencal santons, originating in the late 18th century, are traditionally made of clay and hand-painted. The Jouglas workshop, founded in Marseille, distinguished itself from the early 20th century by the richness of its characters and its faithfulness to regional costumes, making its santons true witnesses of Provencal heritage.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging. Professional seller specializing in folk art and antique decorative objects.

Keywords: antique santon, Provencal figurine, clay nativity, Jouglas Provence, regional costume statue, vintage santons, woman with basket, Southern France craftsmanship, Provence clay figurine, large decorative size, nativity character, signed santon