Rare Antique Wax Costume Figurine by Frères Guillot: C18th Nancy, France
Item Details.
Atelier des frères Guillot, Nancy 18th century.
Dressed wax figure of Virgin Mary.
Face and hands in "porcelain" hard wax.
Please note: We have photographed the figures on top of an embroidery of a Madonna with sequin rays of light. This is not included with the doll and is from my personal collection.
Dressed in a miniature 18th century costume this is perfect for an early costume enthusiast as it has all the details of the fashions of the day.
The workshop who created this figure was run by two brothers, Nicolas and François Guillot, who became famous for their contributions to this particular artistic style. Their work was highly appreciated and became an emblematic element of Nancy's artistic heritage in the 18th century.
The "dressed waxes" produced by the Guillot brothers were often displayed under glass cloches or in decorated wooden frames. These pieces generally featured religious themes, such as representations of the Virgin Mary or saints, like the "Virgin and Child".
Rich ornamentation, including silk, gold and silver embroidery, lace and other fine textiles. Naive and popular artistic expression, reflecting both the devotional and decorative purposes of their creations.
The works of the Guillot brothers are considered an important part of Nancy's cultural and artistic history.
Some of their pieces are held in collections such as those of the Musée Lorrain, which showcases these dressed waxes as part of the region's heritage. Their art remains a testament to Lorraine's eighteenth-century know-how and creativity.
Measurements:
30cm tall x 10cm (widest point)
Condition. All of the items we sell are genuine antique and may have flaws, marks and signs of age which we believe are part of the history and charm of antique items.