An Extraordinary And Rare Reliquary Bust Of A Female Saint, Carved Wood, 1700's

This is an extraordinary and remarkable antique French reliquary bust that was discovered recently in the South of France. Dating from the 18th century, this incredible busts of a female saint is positioned on a base that holds a relic. When it was discovered I was told that it might be the rare representation of Mary Magdalene which has been one of the most celebrated saints in that region of France for 2000 years. It is believed that she arrived there after the crucifixion of Christ. The statue is hand carved from wood that is painted and gilded. Through its impressive age some of it has flaked away creating in the process a magnificent timeworn and distressed patina that in my opinion only brings forth its true mysterious beauty and splendour today. It measures about 41 x 23 x 13 cm or approximately 16 x 9 x 5 inches and it is exactly as I discovered it. For the full condition please refer to the images!