Lot 110A
Spanish Colonial, Mexico, ca. 19th century CE. A finely painted framed retablo on tin depicting Saint Joseph (San Jose) tenderly cradling the infant Jesus in his left hand, while cradling a beautiful blooming staff, his characteristic attribute, in his right elbow. The heads of both the infant Jesus and Joseph are united by a glowing surround of golden rays. The baby Jesus holds a cross in his left hand, representing his Christian dominion, and points upward toward the heavenly realm with his right index finger. Both are dressed in flowing vestments, the folds of the draperies meticulously delineated. The artist of this retablo clearly had a command over his technique; we see a wonderful range of textures from billowy fabrics to soft supple skin. The pair are set within an orb-like niche with azure blue skies behind, making for a fabulous rendering of depth in the scene. A wondrous retablo of rich symbolism and remarkable artistry and technique! Custom matt and frame, wired for suspension. Size: retablo itself measures 15-1/2" x 12" (39.4 x 30.5 cm); framed and matted 21-3/4" x 18-3/8" (55.2 x 46.7 cm)
The cult of Joseph originated during the time of Luther when the Catholic Church was seeking out new heroes to meet the needs of the Counter Reformation. Prior to this time, Joseph was somewhat ignored. The Carmelite Order, under the direction of Saint Theresa, rejuvenated the image of Saint Joseph. Instead of being portrayed as an elderly man who watched over Mary, he grew to be depicted as a virile man in the prime of his life, full of youth and strength, yet portrayed as a gentle man of tenderness as we see in this example.
Provenance: Ex-private Jones collection, New York, NY
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#110572
- Condition: Retablo shows normal wear to surface with expected scratches and bending. Perforations at peripheries for attachment at one time. Bottom right perforation disturbed.
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