Rare Saint jacques of matamore compostelle - Renaissance - Walnut - Early 16th century

Very rare large group in solid walnut dating from early 16th century. This sculpture illustrates the Victory of Santiago de Compostela against the Moors at Clavijo, (this scene is called Matamoros, which literally means killer of Moors in Spanish) . This representation of the Saint Jacques Matamore is unusual in Europe outside of Spain. The statue was unfortunately damaged by a fungus a few years or centuries ago. It is now healthy and worm-free. The amputated arm was probably originally holding a sword. East of France work (Savoie) . * Funny fact, the sculptor decided to represent the Moors in a grotesque way by giving them a rocky appearance (see photo 3-15) . A real museum piece!