Mexico, ca. 1800 CE. A sweet painting on tin depicting Our Lady, Refuge of Sinners. 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 shows a unique rendering of a common image. Copies of the original Italian painting were among the most popular in retablo art. This image, however, moves beyond the standard scene of Mary and Christ by adding two angels at the bottom corners, upholding the usual wreath of red roses that frames the scene. An interesting and sweet depiction! 14" x 10"

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