Description:

Mexico, ca. 19th Century CE. A charming antique Mexican retablo depicting the Christ child manifesting as El Nino de Atocha. 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 offers a very plain but fascinating rendering of El Nino de Atocha. The tradition of the child may be traced back to a suburb of Madrid, where prisoners of the faith 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, it is accepted that he was a manifestation of the Child Jesus. Here he is shown seated on a simple throne, flanked by flowers, holding a staff in his left hand, a small basket of food in his right. He is dressed as a pilgrim, with long robe, capelet, and plumed hat. Interestingly, the artist incorporated a cockleshell, the symbol of a traveler, into the swirl of his robes. 14" x 10" Provenance: ex-Ramone Kelley collection, CO. All items in this auction have been legally acquired, are legal to sell, and guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids, papered by our parent company, Artemis Gallery Ancient Art.

  • Condition: Surface wear and some warping. Pinholes around perimeter for hanging.

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March 14, 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