Description:

Mexico, ca. 1800-1900. A stunning antique Mexican retablo depicting the Virgin Mother and Baby Jesus. 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 is beautifully painted, accentuating the magnificence of its subject. The Queen of Heaven, beautifully turned out in an elaborate blue-green cloak with yellow detail, over a brilliant red frock. Around her neck is a colorful shawl, decorated in red and yellow with pearls, matching the elegant strand around her neck. A golden crown, studded with rubies and emeralds, rests atop her perfectly coiffed hair. Her delicate features are accentuated with rosy hues, her lashes long and attractive. With her hands, she steadies the Christ Child, who wears a sheer gown of elaborately worked lace. He is naked beneath, save a portion of the Mother's cloak. He too, has rosy cheeks and lips, and a matching crown rests on his blonde curls. The Pair is seated on a bed of clouds, and around them emanates a burst of light garlanded by red roses. A truly beautiful example! 7" x 5" Provenance: ex-Kelley collection, Colorado 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. The starting price is the lowest price at which the lot can sell.

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

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

January 24, 2014 9:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 20% 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 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000