Latin America, Mexico, Attributed to Geronimo de Leon, ca. 1895 CE. An exceedingly fine 19th century retablo painting on tin, tenderly representing the Virgin Mary and Christ Child, traditionally referred to as N.S. Refugio de Pecadores (Our Lady, Refuge of Sinners), attributed to Geronimo de Leon, a well-known retablo artist active in the mid to late 19th century. Particularly impressive is de Leon's attention to detail. Just look at the intricate patterns of the various robes worn by the Virgin, and the meticulous delination of the lace trim. Even more impressive is the sheer, delicate gossamer draped over the Christ Child who seems to be floating above a cloud, implying his own ethereal state. This example displays fine painting technique, nicely balanced composition, all with an attractive jewel-tone palette.

The inspiration for this subject is quite fascinating. In 1719 a Jesuit missionary brought a copy of a painting originally created for an altar formerly at Frascati, Italy, in the style of Guido or Salvator Rosa, to Zacatecas, Mexico. The painting inspired the locals to adopt N.S., Refugio de Pecadores as their patron. The Virgin wears a golden crown and supports a crowned Christ Child whose nude body is covered by a transparent robe. She dons a scarf that is drawn across her right shoulder, and her dark blue cape is initialed with her ciphers. The Christ child rests his right hand on her right arm and grips her right thumb with his left hand. It is a touching scene, and this rendition clearly follows the tenets for its correct representation. Size: 14" L x 10" W (35.6 cm x 25.4 cm)

Retablos, known as ‘laminas’ in Mexico, are small oil paintings, usually on heavy-gauge tin, depicting Jesus, the Virgin Mary, the Holy Family, the Holy Trinity, and a canon of patron saints, created with an engaging blend of folk-art and Baroque-inspired style deeply rooted in Spanish history. This unique tradition was introduced to Mexico by the Spaniards upon their arrival in the New World and was ultimately embraced by the indigenous population. The literal translation of the word retablo is "behind the altar," and the creation of this art form was motivated by a desire to worship a holy person or divine coterie in one's household and possess imagery that would ensure health, fertility, good fortune, and a rich harvest.

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

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#111738

Intact with normal surface wear and minor paint losses as shown.