Late 19th / Early 20th Century Handmade Terracotta Santon Woman with Basket

This handmade terracotta Santon from Marseille represents a woman carrying a basket on her head, dressed in a blue and red dress. The hand-painted details capture the traditional attire and hardworking spirit of Provençal villagers. With 27 available, this figure can be purchased individually or as part of a larger collection.

Santons, or "little saints," are integral to the nativity tradition in Provence, allowing families to create miniature scenes representing both the Holy Family and village life. First crafted during the French Revolution, these figures have come to include a variety of local characters, each adding to the richness and authenticity of the crèche. This woman, with her basket balanced gracefully on her head, brings a touch of Provençal culture to any holiday display, celebrating the beauty of tradition and everyday life in the French countryside.

This piece is also available to purchase as part of a set here.