Lot 499
Mexico, 19th c. Another beautiful rendition of Mater Dolorosa or N.S. de los Dolores - Sorrowful Mother or Our Lady of Sorrows - one of the most important compositions in which Mary is depicted without Christ. She is represented as the mourning mother projecting a grieving attitude, her head covered with a blue veil, her hands clasped, a dagger in her breast - the key, distinguishing attribute of Mater Dolorosa. The scene references Luke 2:35. In this passage, Mary is told that a sword will pierce her soul upon presenting Christ to the temple. The fact that the Virgin wears a pearl necklace and matching pearl drop earrings is unusual, for most portrayals of the mourning mother depict her without fanciful jewelry. In addition, a column with a rooster perched atop - representing the Old St. Peter's denial of Christ - is depicted in the background. The new St. Peter would be restored by Christ - one of Christ's significant acts of forgiveness - a reminder that everyone may succumb to doubt and moments of weakness, but hope remains. While the artist of this retablo followed the traditional tenets for composition of the Mater Dolorosa, he/she responded with a distinct style. Departing from what may be interpreted as slavish realism, he/she took a more stylized approach to the subject - making bold contrasts with color and favoring line and far less shadow and traditional modeling to delineate the forms. This example is also special because the artist framed the piece with a striking tin and blue glass frame. Note the lovely rosettes at the corners and how the gorgeous cobalt blue glass brings out the hues of the Virgin's robe. Simply breathtaking! 15-1/4"L x 13-1/2"W
Provenance: Ex-Ramon Kelly Collection, Denver, CO
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- Condition: Frame restored with some losses as shown. Surface wear as shown. Overall good condition.
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