Huelva restores 16th-century San Roque religious carving

The Diputación de Huelva has unveiled the results of a five-month restoration project on the image of San Roque, a co-patron of Huelva and one of the province's most significant historical-artistic pieces. The polychrome wood carving, dating back to the late 16th century and attributed to sculptor Juan Bautista Vázquez el Viejo, underwent extensive work to ensure its conservation and recover its original values.

During the intervention, specialists uncovered original 16th-century polychromy that had been hidden by later modifications, including a likely intervention around 1722. The process also involved the removal of over one hundred nails and other metal elements from the pine wood, which had caused cracks and breaks in the sculpture. Additionally, an inscription on the back of the carving was recovered and documented, providing new insights into its material history.

The piece has been part of the Diputación's inventory for over 150 years. Following a brief exhibition at the provincial headquarters, the restored image will return to its place in the Cathedral of La Merced.