This Peruvian Retablo exemplifies the merger of Spanish Catholicism and Indigenous customs. After converting to Christianity Peruvians embraced the Spanish custom of creating portable shrines or retablos which were used for domestic devotions. These retablos were dedicated to saints or they depicted moments in the life of Jesus. The representation is often rendered in indeginous artistic idioms.
This miniature retablo depicts Jesus, Mary and Joseph. A star shrines brightly over Jesus’ head. The ox and donkey are present as are two unidentified people.
Name: Nativity Retablo
Artist: Unknown
Country: Peru
Material: Paint, Wood
Number of Pieces: 1
Jesus, Mary, Joseph, ox, donkey, two extra people
Acquired: 2000
Artist: Unknown
Country: Peru
Material: Paint, Wood
Number of Pieces: 1
Jesus, Mary, Joseph, ox, donkey, two extra people
Acquired: 2000