Santa Fe Folk Art Wooden Priest Carving By Ben Ortega

Mid/Late 20th Century

12.75″ H x 6.375″ L x 5.25″ W, Figure Stand – 1.5″ H x 5.375″ L x 6.25″ W

Hand Carved from Cottonwood Root of a Priest Standing a a thick Stand Holding some Wood with Outstretched Arms Wearing a Hat and a String Tied Around his Waste

From a Private Colorado Collection

In Very Good Condition

Ben Ortega (19231998) was a renowned Santa Fe/Tesuque, New Mexico, santero (carver of religious figures) known for folk art wooden sculptures, especially bultos (three-dimensional carved saints and religious figures). askart.com His work emphasizes the natural grain and shape of wood (often cottonwood root or local woods), with graceful lines, delicate features, and a strong spiritual quality. He typically left pieces unpainted or with minimal finish to highlight the wood’s beauty. Ortega’s carvings often depict saints like St. Francis of Assisi (his first major piece and a favorite), the Madonna, San Pasqual (a Franciscan monk/priest figure), angels, and other religious or folk subjects.