A large group of mixed metal Mexican milagro charms
Early/mid-20th century and earlier
Comprising a large group of milagro votive charms in various shapes, sizes, and metals, including multiple figures, horses, donkeys, bulls, pigs, dogs, birds, and hearts, 57 pieces approximately
Largest: 3.75" H x 2.625" W; smallest: 0.5" H x 0.875" W
Provenance: The Collection of Frederick W. Davis
Private Collection, Southern California, by descent from the above

Other Notes: The milagros, or ex-votos are considered expressions of thanks for the intervention of saints, and come in all types of figures, including replicas of various parts of the body which have been healed by prayer, as well as all types of animals. The small charms are often attached to the robes of a Santos figure. "Years ago, when Mr. Davis had his shop in the Iturbide Hotel, a woman came with this very nice Santo (about fourteen teaches high), a San Antonio which had been in her house for so many years that it had become a neighborhood Saint. Now she needed money but would sell the precious figure only to someone who would appreciate it and cherish it as she had done. Mr. Davis bought the Santo and as long as he had his shop the former neighbors came to pin their ex-votos on it. One series which tells its own story consists of a heart, a little ring, a baby, and a house, all placed on it by one young man as his prayers were answered. During Mr. Davis's last illness, at a time when he seemed to be recovering, friends added grateful ex-votos to this same household Santo."
Reference: Mary L. Davis and Greta Pack, "Mexican Jewelry" (Austin: University of Texas Press, 1973) 71-74, plates 34, 35.

Each in overall good condition with tarnishing, light wear, and scratches commensurate with age and use. Sun and cloud charm with a break to cloud, retained. Condition reports are offered as a courtesy and are typically published in Moran's catalogue or can be made available upon request. The absence of a condition report does not imply that an item is free from defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of others. Buyers are responsible for determining to their own satisfaction the true nature and condition of any lot prior to bidding. Though buyers are not legally required to inspect lots prior to purchase, failure to do so may constitute a waiver of complaint that an item was not delivered in a condition equal to the existent condition at the auction.