Allegorical “Souls in Purgatory” — Set of Polychrome Carved Wood Relief Figures, Val Gardena (South Tyrol), c. 1880–1930
Allegorical “Souls in Purgatory” — Set of Polychrome Carved Wood Relief Figures, Val Gardena (South Tyrol), c. 1880–1930
Description
Val Gardena / Gröden valley, South Tyrol (Trentino-Alto Adige), Northern Italy — Tyrolean devotional woodcarving tradition — c. 1880–1930.
Description
A rare, theatrical ensemble of polychromed wooden figures rising through a carved flame motif—each face and gesture carrying a distinct emotional register: plea, prayer, surrender, longing. Likely conceived as mounted devotional elements (relief-backed), these pieces sit at the crossroads of Alpine craftsmanship and Catholic moral theatre, offering a powerful cabinet-of-curiosities presence for a library, hallway, or curated interior.
Condition report
Polychromy shows age-appropriate wear with likely localized retouching; sculpted flame tips and high points should be checked for small chips and hairline cracks. Backs/undersides to be inspected for original mounting evidence.
Shipping weight
Estimated packed: ~28–45 kg for the full set (or ~4–7 kg per figure packed).
Collectors’ note
“Souls in purgatory” carvings appear across Catholic Europe; documented Alpine/South Tyrolean examples exist in the specialist trade, and complete multi-figure sets are notably more display-driven than single plaques.
Care
To maintain the beauty and integrity of your purchase, we recommend treating it with care. Simple maintenance practices, such as gentle washing and proper storage, can effectively preserve the longevity of your favorites. We encourage you to refer to the care instructions included with each item, designed to help you keep your purchase in top condition.
Design
Our dedication to excellence extends beyond materials; it encompasses the artistry and craftsmanship illustrated in every piece we create.
