Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a classic 16-inch cast concrete garden statue depicting Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. Rendered in a traditional hooded monastic robe with a rope belt, this figure captures the serene, humble essence of the beloved saint in a durable, weather-resistant medium.
Story
In the mid-1900s, American suburbs boomed, and with them came a passion for backyard sanctuaries. Homeowners placed Saint Francis statues in their gardens to invite peace, nature, and songbirds into their newly minted private havens.
Maker / Origin
While the specific workshop is unknown, this piece comes from the rich tradition of American commercial stone-casting. Local nurseries and concrete companies across the country used reusable latex or plaster molds to cast these figures, making sacred art accessible to everyday homeowners.
Condition & Value
The statue is in good vintage condition with no major structural cracks or missing limbs. It exhibits beautiful, natural weathering, surface pitting, and minor lichen growth consistent with decades of outdoor display. This natural aging actually enhances its aesthetic appeal and does not detract from its value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.