The image shows a statue of St. James the Less, which is housed within the Basilica of St. John Lateran. The statue is sculpted in white marble and depicts St. James in a dynamic pose. He is standing with one leg slightly forward, suggesting movement. His facial expression is serene, with a soft gaze looking off to the side, which adds to the contemplative nature of the piece.
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St. James is dressed in flowing robes that drape naturally around his body, with deep folds and creases that add a sense of realism to the sculpture. The robes are carved with great skill, showing the artist's attention to detail and understanding of fabric and form.
The statue is set within an architectural niche that has a dark backdrop, likely made of a different type of marble or stone, which contrasts with the white marble of the statue and highlights its details. The niche is framed by columns of what appears to be green and white marbled stone, capped with ornate Corinthian capitals that are gilded, adding a touch of opulence to the setting.
Above the statue, there is a small pediment with a decorative element of the Holy Spirit, which is also gilded. This element could be a reference to pilgrimage, as the scallop shell is often associated with St. James the Greater and the Camino de Santiago.
At the base of the niche, there is an inscription that reads "IACOBUS MINOR," indicating that this is indeed St. James the Less. The use of "Minor" distinguishes him from St. James the Greater, another apostle.
The overall impression of the statue is one of elegance and reverence, fitting for its setting in a major basilica. The sculpture likely dates back to the baroque or renaissance period, given its style and the artistic techniques used. The Basilica of St. John Lateran itself is one of Rome's most important churches and holds significant historical and religious importance in Christianity.
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