Latin America, Mexico, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A fine silver (.925) heart milagro associated with the Lady of Sorrows in the form of a heart pierced by seven daggers with flame-like motif adorning the stem. The seven daggers represent a sacred number in Catholicism, as there are seven deadly sins, seven sacraments, and seven sorrows of Mary. This is a favored Spanish Colonial form skillfully crafted in the time honored tradition with details in repousse throughout. The word milagro translates to miracle or surprise. Milagros are religious folk charms used as votive offerings and for healing purposes in Mexico, other regions of Latin America, the southern United States, and sections of the Iberian peninsula. The faithful attach them to altars, shrines, and sacred objects such as church bells found in places of worship. Size: 4.5 oz., 127.6 grams, 10-1/4" x 7" (26.7 x 17.8 cm).

For a similar example, see James Caswell and Jenise Amanda Ramos, Editors, Sins and Sinners: Mexican Devotional Art, The California Heritage Museum, 2006, p. 79.

Provenance: Ex-Historia Antiques, James Caswell, Santa Monica, CA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#110852

Intact with expected tarnish. Overall near choice.