Description:

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: 10" W x 14.1" H (25.4 cm x 35.8 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-Monrovia, California, USA collection

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.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#187579

  • Condition: Buildup and darkening to surface with nicks and abrasions as shown. Folding to upper right corner with some light bending to tin. Otherwise, intact with liberal remaining detail.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

November 1, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 27.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

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 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000