AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a small polychrome devotional figure depicting St. Peregrine Laziosi, the patron saint of cancer patients. The figure is cast, likely from resin or a similar heavy polymer material, and hand-finished with paint. The saint is rendered in his traditional iconographic pose, wearing the black habit of the Servite Order. A crucial distinguishing feature is his exposed right leg, which reveals a visible sore or lesion with red paint highlights, referencing the miraculous healing of his cancerous leg. The figure is shown in a recumbent or standing-upright orientation (as viewed) with a tonsured head and a solemn facial expression. The craftsmanship suggests a mass-produced religious souvenir or liturgical aid, likely dating from the late 20th to early 21st century. The colors include a matte black for the robes and various flesh tones for the skin, with reddish-brown accents for the hair and wound. Condition appears good with minor surface dust, though no significant chips, cracks, or paint loss are visible in the provided image. There are no obvious maker's marks or signatures on the front of the piece, which is typical for small-scale devotional items of this nature.

I have examined the digital images of this St. Peregrine Laziosi devotional figure. The item is a contemporary cast resin statuette, hand-painted to represent the patron saint of cancer patients. My visual assessment confirms the primary diagnostic features: the black Servite Order habit and the exposed cancerous leg, which are standard iconographic elements for this figure. The casting shows a level of detail typical for modern religious giftware rather than fine art or antique liturgical woodcarvings. Condition is assessed as ‘Excellent’ based on the lack of visible abrasions or structural damage. The market for such items is high-volume but low-value. These figures are widely available in Catholic gift shops and online retailers as 'devotional helps.' They do not carry high rarity or investment potential, as they are mass-produced in factories, likely in Italy, China, or South America. Comparables for contemporary resin saints of this size (typically 3–6 inches) consistently sell in the $15–$30 range. Significant factors impacting value include the lack of a known artist's signature and the use of synthetic materials over traditional wood or plaster. My valuation represents the fair market retail price for a second-hand devotional object in this condition. Limitations: My assessment is based solely on digital imagery. While I can identify the material as likely resin, an in-person examination is required to verify the exact substrate (e.g., plaster vs. polymer) and check for hidden repairs under UV light. Full authentication of the age would require examining the base for manufacturer stamps or original packaging. For items of this modest value, scientific testing or provenance documentation is generally not cost-effective.