Spanish Colonial School Retablo
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Description
(Mexico, 19th century)
La Cruz de Animas (Cross of Souls), oil on tin, 14-1/8 x 10-1/8 in.
Note: Note from consigner: "A colorful Mexican retablo representing "La Cruz de Animas" (Cross of Souls) painted on heavy gauge tin upon a handmade wooden mount. The composition depicts Christ on the Cross, flanked by the sun and moon and surmounted by the Eternal Father in the celestial realm above. At the bottom are 12 animas solas (lonesome departed ancestral souls) pleading for salvation while awaiting judgment in the flames of purgatory. These souls surround a small vignette of Adam and Eve beneath the Tree of Life. Above is La Mater Dolorosa to the left of the Cross and St. Michael holds a sword and scales of justice to the right emphasizing the themes of judgment and redemption. All is set against a beautiful starry blue sky. This form was particular to the Otomi culture from around the state of Queretaro, and acted as a reminder to pray for the safekeeping of the souls of departed ancestors as well as oneself."
Provenance: Artemis Gallery, Louisville, Colorado, June 21, 2018, lot 199, purchased for $1,400; Private Collection, Colorado
Condition
dents and holes, surface dirt, mounted to wood strainer
Buyer's Premium
- 28%