Mexico, ca. 1800-1900. An antique Mexican retablo depicting St. Isidore the Labourer. 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 retablo depicts St. Isidore the Labourer, a patron saint of farmers. St. Isidore was a simple farmer who, following an epiphany, took time to pray and commune with God while working in his master's fields. When Isidore's fellow labourers complained that he was neglecting his work, Isidore's master came to the fields to observe him. He was amazed to see Isidore, kneeling in prayer, while angels plowed the fields for him. Here Isidore is shown kneeling, the City of God in his sight, as an angel performs some menial tasks beneath him. 14" x 10".

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