Santos de palo
Religious figures carved in wood by artisans called santeros, a tradition centuries old on the island. They are small, simply and expressively carved, and were made for the home altar rather than the church. Antique pieces sit in museums and current ones are bought at fairs and family workshops.
Example
The Three Kings are the most carved set on the island, and in many homes they still come out every January.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I see antique ones?
Yes, in Puerto Rican art museums in San Juan and Ponce, which hold folk carving collections.
How do I tell a real carving from a souvenir?
By the santero's signature, the wood and the price. Workshop pieces carry a name on the back and do not come from a generic gift shop.
