The Visual Importance of Religious Statues

Religious statues are essentially three-dimensional portraits of Jesus, Mary, angels, and saints. Much like other religious art, religious statues are the embodiment of the presence of the holy and intercession in our lives.Religious statues have an aesthetic appeal while also telling the story of a significant person. They also serve as an outward symbol of your faith and commitment to Christianity.

Religious statues can be displayed indoors or out in personal homes or churches. They also vary in size to suit different spaces. Outdoor statues do tend to be larger than indoor statues, although that isn’t always the case. Similarly, most church statues are larger than those that you might display in personal space, but not always. Simple churches with small sanctuaries or grounds may display statues about the same size as you would pick for personal use.

Religious statues can be made of a variety of materials, including porcelain, resin, and pewter. Outdoor statues have more specifications in terms of appropriate materials due to the wear and tear of weather and the elements. Choose wisely so your religious statue will last and last in your garden or yard.

Religious statues can be contemporary or traditional. Traditional-style statues are those that look more similar to those you might see in church (of varying sizes). Whereas, Willow Tree makes some of the more modern types, and glass options are always very sleek.

One of the most common religious statues is Jesus the Carpenter. People are quite drawn to Jesus as a worker and member of the community. Another religious Jesus statue that is immediately recognizable is the Sacred Heart of Jesus statue, which you are probably accustomed to seeing in churches. Madonna statues are always popular as well, including Madonna of the Streets, which shows Mary as a more humble, simple, “human” woman (the appeal of this rendition of Mary is probably similar to the appeal of Jesus the Carpenter). Mary is also present in Pieta statues, which depict her holding Jesus’ body after the crucifixion. If you like a particular saint’s story or their perseverance, you can likely find a statue of him or her. Or choose a patron saint of a cause that is close to your heart - or your namesake or the namesake of your child. Religious statues don’t have to include Jesus, Mary, or a saint. They can also, for example, be a figure of a little boy receiving his first communion or an angel kneeling. These statues might visually harken an event or feeling.

Religious statues are ALL of value because of who or what they depict. But as with anything else in our lives, choosing a statue for your home or church should be a reflection of you or your congregation.

At St. Patrick’s Guild, we offer a wide selection of faith-based gifts, figurines, and religious statues. Check out our selection online today or contact us personally so we can better serve you.