Carved nutcracker - Attributed to André Mathot – Saint-Hubert (Belgium)

Large handcrafted nutcracker carved from a single block of wood. An antique piece from the workshop of André Mathot, a Belgian wood sculptor active in Saint-Hubert. The object still bears its original label: “Mathot Art Workshop – Saint-Hubert – Handmade” On the back is an engraved monogram “SH” topped with a symbol evoking Saint-Hubert and the solar research conducted by André Mathot around the basilica of Saint-Hubert. Brutalist / Belgian artisanal style from the 60s-80s: * visible gouge sculpture, * organic shapes, * beautiful old patina, * entirely manual work. Dimensions: * approximately 32.5 X 31 cm. * height: 4.5 cm. Weight: 1.060 kg. Condition: in its original state, intentionally not cleaned to preserve the patina and allow the buyer to choose their own conservation method. About André Mathot: André Mathot (1928-2017) was a Belgian wood sculptor based in Saint-Hubert. Little documented today, he is nonetheless mentioned in local archives as the creator of religious sculptures, notably Virgin and Child figures preserved in parishes in the region. He is also locally known for his research on light phenomena in the basilica of Saint-Hubert. A rare and endearing piece of Belgian folk art.