Description:

Latin America, Mexico, ca. 1880 CE. A dramatic 19th century tin retablo representing Christ's visage on 'Veronica's Veil' also known as La Santa Faz Veronica (The Veil of Veronica) or El Divino Rostro (the Divine Face or the Holy Face). Upon seeing Christ on his way to Calvary, Veronica made her way through the crowds, and wiped the sweat and the blood from his forehead with her veil. His image is said to have imprinted itself and is still preserved in Saint Peter's today. Some also propose that the title of this theme is also derived from the phrase "vera icon" meaning "true icon." A finely painted example with an expressive, heart-wrenching visage. Size: 14" L x 10" W (35.6 cm x 25.4 cm)

Retablos, known as ‘laminas’ in Mexico, are small oil paintings, usually on heavy-gauge tin, depicting Jesus, the Virgin Mary, the Holy Family, the Holy Trinity, and a canon of patron saints, created with an engaging blend of folk-art and Baroque-inspired style deeply rooted in Spanish history. This unique tradition was introduced to Mexico by the Spaniards upon their arrival in the New World and was ultimately embraced by the indigenous population. The literal translation of the word retablo is "behind the altar," and the creation of this art form was motivated by a desire to worship a holy person or divine coterie in one's household and possess imagery that would ensure health, fertility, good fortune, and a rich harvest.

Provenance: Ex-Historia Antiques, James Caswell, Santa Monica, CA.

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#111745

  • Condition: Very minor nicks to lower corners and upper left edge as shown. Expected surface wear and oxidation. Overall very good.

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January 7, 2016 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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