Latin America, Mexico, ca. 1875 CE. A free standing, oil on wood retablo of La Alegoria de la Redencion (Allegory of the Redemption ). This superb rendition is painted on sabino, a very desirable wood used for furniture in the Spanish Colonial era. The piece depicts one of the most unique subjects in retablo art. As the name implies, the painting is layered with allegoric and symbolic iconography throughout. Beginning in the lower section, we see a small vignette with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden flanked by a dozen 'anima solas' dramatically set in the flames of purgatory. In the upper quadrant, crucified Christ positioned with landscape in the background, is flanked by Saint Michael, Mater Dolorosa (Virgin of Sorrows) and the Eternal Father joined by the sun and moon above. The painting style presents as a wonderful blend of folk and acaemic styles, as is characteristic of the Spanish Colonial period. The candle burns represent a unique and intimate part of its history. Size: 10.25" L x 3.2" W x 14" H (26 cm x 8.1 cm x 35.6 cm)

Exhibited at the California Heritage Museum and published in the book co-authored by the late James Caswell entitled, ‘Saints and Sinners,’ (The California Heritage Museum, 2006), page 149.

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

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