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Ancient altarpiece of fish carved in polychrome wood

About the Item

Ancient altarpiece carved in wood with excellent polychrome, representing two fish where the larger one eats the smaller one. Undoubtedly, a beautiful piece loaded with great symbolism such as the natural cycle of life and death or the biblical reference in the story of Jonah, swallowed by a fish and remaining in it for 3 days until he prayed to God and was returned to the earth. It also shows the interpretation of sin and redemption, depicting the large fish as the sin that devours and distances itself from God, while the small fish represents the human soul in search of salvation. A scene that could be seen as a call to conversion and repentance. The piece consists of two parts joined by a nail inside the mouth of the large fish, without being completely fixed, it presents movement.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 7.88 in (20 cm)Width: 17.72 in (45 cm)Depth: 3.94 in (10 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Wood,Hand-Carved,Polychromed
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    18th century
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. It presents wear and damage on the tips and edges, proof of the passage of time on it.
  • Seller Location:
    Benalmadena, ES
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU6191239579212
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