Shepherd with Staff

NameFigure

DateLate 1970s - early 1980s

(not assigned)AUps, Cote d'Azur, France, Europe

MediumCeramic, fiber, paint, wood

DimensionsShepherd: 12 15/16 × 6 5/16 × 5 11/16 in. (32.8 × 16 × 14.5 cm)
Staff: 11 13/16 × 3/8 × 3/8 in. (30 × 1 × 1 cm)

Credit LineMuseum of International Folk Art, Gift of Bob and Marge McCarthy, A.2011.38.7

Terms

Aups

Object numberA.2011.38.7ab

ProvenanceThe tradition of making santons ("Little Saints") in Provence, France began after the revolution when it was forbidden to have the creche figures in churches. People made them at home of wax or wood or ceramic and added local figures bringing gifts to the Christ Child. See paperwork in file titled "How Santons Are Made" and "How Mamie Martin Santons Are Made."

DescriptionShepherd has patched tan pants and tan shirt with a brown, full length shawl wrapped around him. He has painted brown sandals. He's carrying a sheep around his shoulders, and it's legs are tied together with string to make a carrying strap. Signed "Mamie Martin M.O.F" on base top.