How old are these sculptures?

The pieces span from pre-sixteenth century medieval works to nineteenth-century revival items, with seventeenth and eighteenth-century examples forming a large share. Date attribution relies on wood species, tool marks, stylistic conventions of drapery, and the composition of underlying gesso layers.

Were they used in churches?

Most of these figures originated in European churches, chapels and private domestic shrines for daily prayer and contemplation. Some served as altarpiece components while others functioned as processional statues carried during religious festivals.

How should I clean the wood?

Maintenance requires only gentle dusting with a soft, dry brush to protect fragile historic paint and gilt surfaces. Water, oils and modern cleaning agents must be avoided because moisture damages aged gesso and strips delicate polychrome finishes.

Why are some figures fragments?

Many surviving sculptures formed part of larger altarpieces, church architectural schemes or rood screens that were later dismantled. Breakage or loss of limbs and attributes occurred during centuries of movement, secularisation of monasteries, and changing ecclesiastical fashions.