Latin America, Mexico, ca. 19th century CE. A poignant painted tin retablo that tenderly represents the Virgin Mary and Christ Child arranged in a composition traditionally referred to as N.S. Refugio de Pecadores (Our Lady, Refuge of Sinners) framed by a wreath of red roses, the entire scene floating upon heavenly clouds. This example displays fine painting technique and a nicely balanced composition all in a richly saturated palette. 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. Renditions of the original Italian painting were among the most favored in retablo art. Icons like these were placed above household altars to venerate the saints. The translation of the word retablo literally means "behind the altar". Size: 14" L x 10" W (35.6 cm x 25.4 cm)

Provenance: Ex - private Ramon Kelly collection, Denver, CO.

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 and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#113897

Minor surface wear commensurate with age. Painting still quite vivid. Overall very good.