Description:

Latin America, Mexico, ca. 1875 CE. A sweet and petite antique Mexican retablo depicting the Holy Family (Mary, Joseph, and the Christ Child) finely painted in vivid hues against a golden background. Mary grasps the Child's wrist, steadying him as he toddles, and he holds a miniature cross subtly foreshadowing the Crucifixion. The Holy Mother is dressed in traditional blue and red. Her head is tilted lovingly toward him, and her expression is peaceful and serene. St. Joseph, garbed in traditional green and yellow, carries a flowering staff. Rays of light project over the Christ Child symbolizing his holiness. Size: 6-3/4"x 4-1/2"

Icons like these were placed above household altars to venerate the saints and members of the Holy Family (retablo literally means "behind the altar"). Retablo became very popular in the 19th century due to the introduction of tin as an affordable medium. Provenance: Ex-Historia Antiques, James Caswell, Santa Monica, CA. 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. #109735

  • Condition: Minor surface wear with slight paint losses as shown. Perforation at top center.

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September 24, 2015 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000