|
|
The term “santino” refers to a small holy picture, which may depict not only a saint but also scenes from the life of Christ, episodes from the Bible or any kind of sacred image.
|
The Museo del Paesaggio has been collecting and conserving these valuable sacred images since 1982. The santini, which are made using various materials and techniques, are classified as follows: Female saints; Male saints; Marian sanctuaries; Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary; the Madonna in art; the Virgin and titles; Christmas; the Christ Child; the Life of the Christ Child, the Holy Family, St Joseph; the Public Life of Jesus; Titles of Jesus; Church, Popes, Priests; Symbols; Easter; First Communion and Confirmation; Images of mourning; Modern photographed images; Angels; Prayers; Series. The santini are collected in special albums to give the visitor a wide view of the subject. Each album can hold around a thousand holy pictures. |
The phenomenon is of major importance for any understanding of popular devotion. The production of santini, like that of ex-votos, has only in recent years shaken off its negative connotations, and is today being studied by an increasing number of scholars.