| This very charming 19th century Mexican folk retablo represents "ElNino de Atocha." El Nino, one of the most popular subjects in Mexican retablo art, is the patron saint for freeing prisoners, also known to perform miracles for travelers and those in danger. This popular image originated in Spain after the Moors invaded the town of Atocha. According to popular legend, there was a prison filled with Christians who lacked basic necessities including food and water. Only missionary children were allowed to visit and one day after family members prayed a child carrying a basket, a staff and a gourd of water, came dressed as a pilgrim. After he served everyone in the prison both his basket and gourd were still full and it was then believed that the miraculous visitation was none other than the infant Jesus. The retablo is inscribed "Nino Dios de Atocha."
Dimensions: 10 inches vertical x 7 inches horizontal. |
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