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Unknown
1955 Mexican Ex-Voto Retablo of St. Francis Restoring a Home, Folk Art

1955

$1,950
£1,467.69
€1,717.10
CA$2,757.84
A$2,801.13
CHF 1,614.21
MX$33,819.46
NOK 18,750.56
SEK 18,907.01
DKK 12,835.91

About the Item

An exceptional dated 1955 Mexican ex-voto retablo depicting a heartfelt expression of gratitude to Saint Francis of Assisi for the restoration of a family home. Hand-painted on tin by an anonymous folk artist, this rare devotional work embodies the narrative power, spiritual devotion, and vernacular charm that define the finest examples of Mexican folk art. The inscription recounts the moving story of Cholita and Francisca Díaz of Guanajuato, who give thanks to St. Francis after recovering their home—their most cherished possession. In an extraordinary act of faith and gratitude, they dedicate the property to the saint's convent, transforming this painting into both a devotional object and a poignant historical document that preserves a deeply personal moment in Mexican social and religious life. Executed in the traditional ex-voto format, the composition combines narrative imagery and handwritten testimony, creating a compelling visual record of divine intervention. The work retains the expressive simplicity, emotional immediacy, and authentic character that have made Mexican retablos increasingly sought after by collectors of Latin American art, religious art, folk art, and outsider art. Surviving examples with complete narratives, specific dates, and uncommon subjects such as Saint Francis of Assisi are particularly desirable. Presented in a custom handcrafted frame, this remarkable ex-voto serves as both a significant cultural artifact and a striking decorative object. Its rich storytelling, historical authenticity, and devotional subject make it an exceptional addition to collections of Mexican folk art, Spanish Colonial traditions, religious imagery, and narrative painting.
  • Creation Year:
    1955
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 15.5 in (39.37 cm)Width: 18 in (45.72 cm)Depth: 0.5 in (1.27 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Movement & Style:
  • Period:
  • Framing:
    Frame Included
    Framing Options Available
  • Condition:
  • Gallery Location:
    Denver, CO
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 288611stDibs: LU27317395602

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