Italian silver sculpture depicting St. Anthony with the Infant Jesus - probably Naples, 19th century

The Saint is depicted wrapped in the typical Franciscan habit and with sandals on his feet, while holding the Child Jesus, the Gospel and the lily in his left hand and arm.
The Baby Jesus recalls the vision that Anthony had in Camposampiero, the meeting of their gazes expresses the attachment to the humanity of Christ and his intimacy with God.
The book in his hand symbolises his science, his doctrine, his preaching and his teaching always inspired by the Bible; finally, the lily represents his purity and his fight against evil.
The statue rests on a round base.
Height 59 cm, base diameter 25.5 cm.
Item condition grading: **** good.