Description:

Mexico, late 19th century CE. A wonderful antique Mexican retablo depicting the Mater Dolorosa, a popular subject for retablo art. Icons like these were placed above household altars to venerate the saints (retablo literally means "behind the altar"). The retablo became wildly popular in the 19th century due to the introduction of tin as an affordable medium. This example incorporates the typical somber colors of the scene contrasted with brilliant pops of yellow, pink, red, green, and blue, causing the Holy Mother to radiate against her surroundings. Her hands are clasped in sorrow as she contemplates the crucifixion, represented by the cross in the upper right corner, and the rooster in the upper left. A sword pierces her heart, a reference to Luke 2:35: "And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, 'Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed--and a sword will pierce even your own soul-- to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.'" 14ö x 10ö. Provenance: ex-Ramone Kelly private collection, prominent Denver visual artist. 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.

  • Condition: Areas of loss, warping, and rust, as is typical with antique tin.

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Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

September 24, 2014 9:00 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