Latin America, Mexico, dated 1868 CE. A beautiful Mexican retablo depicting the Mater Dolorosa, a popular subject venerating the Virgin Mary. In addition to the traditional depiction, this example is signed and dated on the bottom in lovely handwriting; it reads, "Mater Dolorosa (Sorrowful Mother) Ano de 1868 (Year of 1868) Ignacio Munoz (the artist)." We see the Virgin Mary dressed in traditional blue robe against a teal green background, light radiating from her head like a halo, her face delicately painted. Her hands are clasped in sorrow as she contemplates the crucifixion, represented by the cross in the lower left corner. A sword pierces her heart, 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.'" This image is one of the most important compositions in which Mary is depicted without Christ. She is represented as the mourning mother projecting a grieving attitude, with the crown of thorns beneath her. The acronym INRI (Jesus the Nazarene, King of the Jews) also painted below. Size: 14" x 10"

Provenance: Ex-Historia Antiques, James Caswell, Santa Monica, CA.

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Perforations at top center and corners for suspension. Loss to bottom left corner as shown. Normal surface wear. Overall excellent.