Latin America, Mexico, ca. 19th century CE. A large painting on canvas depicting the Blessed Virgin Mary in her role as the patroness of the Carmelite Order or the Discalced Carmelite Order - also known as the Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel or the Brown Scapular. N.S. de Carmen is presented in her role as the protectress, donning her traditional robes painted jewel tone red with golden stars and decorative trim. Both Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the Child hold scapulars that resemble the shield of the Carmelite Order, traditionally depicted as the cross on a mound with stars on either side (these are more stylized). Mary holds the Christ Child and is flanked by St. John of the Cross and St. Teresa of Avila, two of the most distinguished Carmelites revered as great mystics. Below are 3 souls in purgatory. A quaint painting in a somewhat naive style, both charming and richly symbolic. Size: 38.125" L x 28.125" W (96.8 cm x 71.4 cm)

The feast day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel associated with the Scapular is celebrated on July 16th. According to the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments; Directory on Popular Piety and the Liturgy. Principles and Guidelines. Vatican, 2001, the Brown Scapular is "an external sign of the filial relationship established between the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother and Queen of Mount Carmel, and the faithful who entrust themselves totally to her protection, who have recourse to her maternal intercession, who are mindful of the primacy of the spiritual life and the need for prayer."

The scapular was traditionally a broad band of cloth worn over the shoulders, that fell below the knees toward the feet front and back as an apron. It is still worn as a component of the religious habit by a number of orders of monks and friars. Gradually the scapular was adapted for use by the laity, and became two small panels of brown cloth joined by strings and worn over the shoulders as a familiar Marian sacramental. Its popularity persisted because of its association with the salvation of souls.

Provenance: private Moore collection, Denver, Colorado, USA, acquired thirty years ago

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#122002

Areas of restoration with visible signs on the verso of the canvas and some losses to peripheries. Pigments have darkened a bit with minor losses and areas of craquelure. The painting was put on newer stretchers with gallery tape rather than cross bars.