St John the Evangelist with Eagle – Wooden Statue from South Tyrol

Motif & meaning

St John holds a special place among the four Evangelists. He is regarded as the “beloved disciple” of Jesus and as a profound theologian whose Gospel is distinguished by an especially spiritual and symbol-rich language. His writings deal intensively with the nature of Christ, with love, truth and the inner understanding of faith.

In Christian iconography St John is often shown with a book and a quill, which make clear his role as Evangelist and author of the Gospel of John. The eagle at his feet is his classic symbol and stands for spiritual far-sightedness, elevation and the ability to view the divine from a higher perspective. This attribute makes John a symbol of spiritual depth and clarity.

The figure of St John is particularly suited to places of quiet contemplation, to churches, chapels and private prayer spaces. His calm presence invites meditation and supports an atmosphere of recollection and inner reflection. People who engage with theological questions and spiritual deepening will find in this depiction an expressive companion.

As a gift for church occasions or as a personal symbol of faith, too, St John has a lasting significance. The combination of traditional iconography and craft woodcarving gives the figure a timeless presence that unites faith and cultural heritage.

Finish, origin & special features

The figure of St John is made using the traditional woodcarving craft of Val Gardena in South Tyrol. Every step is done entirely by hand, from selecting and drying the wood through the rough and fine carving to the final surface finishing. Master sculptor Karl Demetz oversees the artistic direction. All production takes place 100% in Val Gardena and follows the traditional techniques of the regional carving craft.

The material is mainly lime wood, as this wood has an even structure and allows particularly fine detail. Facial features, hands, folds of the robe and the eagle as the symbol of the Evangelist are worked out precisely. For larger figures, glued wooden blocks may be used to reduce tension in the wood and ensure lasting dimensional stability.

The different finishes give the figure a distinct effect each. Natural versions highlight the pure carving and the grain of the wood. Stained and multicolour stained versions look calmer and harmoniously balanced. Hand-painted colour finishes gain their depth from carefully applied oil paints. For the genuine gold leaf and antique genuine gold leaf versions, a gesso ground is applied first, onto which gold leaf is then laid. The antique gilding is characterised by a deliberately created craquelure that gives the surface a look steeped in tradition.

Before delivery, every figure undergoes a careful final inspection in which proportions, details and surface quality are checked. Depending on the series and finish, the figure may bear a Val Gardena quality label confirming its origin in Val Gardena. As a natural product, every wooden figure is one of a kind, differing slightly from other pieces in grain, colour tone and detail.

Shipping: Hand-carved statues arrive insured, directly from the workshop in South Tyrol, to Germany and Austria only for €6.90. Delivery time approx. 3–4 weeks.

Returns: The statutory 14-day right of withdrawal applies. Please report any transport damage to us within 48 hours with a few photos, and we will sort out everything else.

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