Saint Isidore Retablo

This turn of the century Mexican folk retablo represents San Ysidro Labrador, the patron Saint of Farmers. We are proud to offer this fine painting, a folk masterpiece, attributed to one of the most cherished retablo painters - Lorenzo Hernandez. Lorenzo Hernandez has a style uniquely his own. His loose hand, brilliant use of color and capricious line work are but just a few of his signature trademarks. His works are considered to be some of the very best, prized by collectors, illustrated in major publications, exhibited in museum collections around the world. The San Ysidro offered here is a 'world class' retablo, painted in 1901, at the pinnacle of Lorenzo Hernandez's painting career. 

Illustrated in Saints and Sinners, Mexican Devotional Art. Page 63

San Ysidro is invoked for agricultural issues, good weather (before picnics) and prosperous crop and is usually shown disproportionately larger than the angel and the cattle before him. According to popular belief, San Ysidro was instructed by God to stop working on the Sabbath but the Saint was too overwhelmed with work and would not obey. The lord threatened him thrice and San Ysidro accepted the Lord's offer of an angel to help him complete his chores. It is is the manner, working the fields with his angel and cattle, in which he is most commonly depicted.

Titled and dated along lower edge. Displayed in a handsome hand painted and gilt-wood frame. 

Dimensions: retablo measures 10 inches vertical x 7 inches horizontal. Frame measures 14.5 inches x 11.75 inches. 

In overall excellent condition.

questions? Contact us at 415-578-8814 or info@colonialarts.com