Latin America, Mexico, 19th century. Hand-painted on heavy gauge tin, a touching retablo of Our Lady of Sorrows (Mater Dolorosa in Latin). This image is one of the most important compositions in which Mary is depicted without Christ. She is represented as a mourning mother projecting a grieving attitude, her head covered with a blue veil, her hands clasped together, and a dagger pointed at her breast - the distinguishing attribute of Mater Dolorosa. The sword piercing Mary's heart is a reference to Luke 2:35: "And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, 'Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed--and a sword will pierce even your own soul-- to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.'" Size: 9.875" L x 6.875" W (25.1 cm x 17.5 cm)

Provenance: ex-private Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA collection; ex. Dr. David Harner collection, Arkansas, USA, 1950s to 1960s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#161369

Expected surface wear with some pigment loss, abrasions, and stains commensurate with age. Curled edge at upper left.