How old are these wood carvings?

The pieces span from pre-sixteenth century medieval examples up to the twentieth century. Most items date from the sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Stylistic shifts in drapery, hair and facial carving help distinguish earlier gothic and renaissance pieces from later baroque and nineteenth century revivals.

What woods were used for continental figures?

Carvers selected regional hardwoods and softwoods depending on local availability and workshop traditions. Oak and walnut appear frequently in earlier pieces, whilst limewood and pine offered fine grain for intricate work. Applewood and general hardwoods also support specific regional sculptural styles across Europe.

Did these figures have original paint?

Many ecclesiastical figures received gesso layers followed by polychrome pigments, silver or gold leaf. These finishes enhanced visibility in dim chapels and churches. Surviving traces of early paint or gilding indicate how the pieces originally appeared before centuries of wear or subsequent cleaning altered the surfaces.

How were figures displayed originally?

Religious sculptures often stood on plinths, altars or brackets within churches, or formed part of larger architectural altarpieces. Some items served as candle-bearing figures or acolyte candlesticks. Later domestic examples transitioned into tabletop lamps, decorative objects or standalone mantel sculptures.