What does an antique polychrome wood religious sculpture typically cost?

Prices vary widely by period, size and condition. Expect to pay £300–£1,500 for a 19th-century statuette, and £3,000–£30,000 or more for a well-preserved Gothic or Renaissance carving retaining its original polychromy.

How do I authenticate an antique Orthodox icon?

Examine the wood panel (species, chamfered reverse edges), the gold-leaf-over-Armenian-bole gilding technique, the iconographic style and any inscriptions in Church Slavonic or Greek. For significant pieces, a specialist in Byzantine or Russian art is strongly recommended.

Is it legal to buy and sell sacred art objects that came from churches?

In France, classified objects belonging to places of worship are inalienable. However, pieces from private collections or craftsmen's workshops are freely tradeable. A reputable dealer will always be able to provide clear provenance documentation tracing the object's history.

How should I care for an antique polychrome wood carving?

Avoid sudden changes in humidity and keep the piece out of direct sunlight. Dust gently with a soft brush. Never apply chemical products to the painted surface. If the paint layer begins to lift, consult a specialist conservator before attempting any intervention.

Which regional schools or origins are most sought after in antique religious art?

Rhenish and Swabian carvings of the 15th century, Burgundian workshops, Spanish imagiers from Castile and Andalusia (16th–17th century), and Russian icons from the Novgorod or Moscow schools are particularly prized by collectors and museums alike.