Lot 122
Latin America, Mexico, ca. 19th century CE. A finely painted retablo on heavy gauge tin depicting the Christ Child as El Nino de Atocha. The tradition of the child may be traced back to Atocha, a district of Madrid, following the Moors' invasion, where pious prisoners were said to have been visited and nourished by a young boy dressed as a wandering pilgrim. Because of the miraculous nature of the child's appearance and bountiful offerings, it is accepted that he was a manifestation of the Child Jesus. He is shown in his traditional capelet and brimmed hat, with a traveler's staff in his left hand and a basket of bread in his right. He is seated in an elaborate chair flanked by vases of roses. Size of retablo: 6.9" W x 9.9" H (17.5 cm x 25.1 cm) Size of frame: 13" W x 15.8" H (33 cm x 40.1 cm)
El Nino de Atocha is one of the most popular subjects in Mexican retablo art. The child is known as the patron saint for freeing prisoners, believed to perform miracles for travelers and anyone in danger. According to popular legend, after the Moors invaded the town of Atocha, there was a prison occupied by Christians who lacked food and water and other fundamental necessities. The only visitors permitted were missionary children. However, one day after family members prayed, a child dressed as a pilgrim, carrying a basket, a staff and a gourd of water arrived. Miraculously, after serving every prisoner, his basket and gourd remained full. For this reason, the miraculous visitation was believed to be from the Infant Jesus.
Provenance: ex-Keith Stanley collection, Professor Emeritus of Classical Studies at Duke University, North Carolina, USA
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#174703
- Condition: Some minor chips to outer edges of retablo with tiny tear to bottom periphery and bending to tin, but form and image are still clear. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice preservation of pigment. Set in modern frame with suspension wire on verso.
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