Rare Antique 15\" French Santon Crèche Nativity Figure Folk Art Doll Glass Eyes For Sale

Up for sale is a museum-quality, 15-inch antique dressed figure (santon habillé), originally crafted for a fine Provencal crèche display. Featuring striking inset glass eyes and a masterfully sculpted face, this rare 19th-century piece demonstrates exceptional artisanal craftsmanship.

Breathtaking Original Textiles & Regional

Costume

The defining feature of this antique santon is her fully intact, multi-layered regional dress, showcasing extraordinary period fabric work:

Quilted Floral Skirt (Jupe Piquée): A magnificent, heavy hand-quilted skirt made from antique floral cotton chintz, featuring vibrant botanical motifs in coral, teal, and cream.

Block-Printed Bodice: A striking red cotton top decorated with traditional Provencal block-printed floral patterns and detailed gathered sleeves.

Intricate Lace Bonnet (Coiffe): A layered lace headpiece with fine mesh embroidery, delicate ruffles, and long cotton ribbon ties dangling down the back.

Net & Lace Shawl (Fichu): A fine net shawl draped over her shoulders and tucked into the waist, trimmed with detailed scalloped lace edging.

Striped Apron: A contrasting pleated green-and-white vertical striped apron worn over the quilted skirt.

Condition & Specifications

Height: 15 inches tall (standing on its original wooden display base)

Features: Inset glass eyes, hand-carved/sculpted features

Condition: Excellent structural condition for an antique. The period textiles retain fantastic color and integrity. The head shows light gesso flaking and paint wear on the chin and forehead, verifying its true antique age and untouched patina and wear to fingers.

An extraordinary find for collectors of fine antique dolls, French folk art, nativity figures, or rare 19th-century textiles.