DepartmentHispano

San Calletano

NamePainting

Maker José Benito Ortega (American, 1858 - 1941)

CultureHispanic American

Dateafter 1858

Place madeNew Mexico, United States, North America

Mediumpine gesso and paint

Dimensions(not specified): 8 11/16 x 7 5/16 x 13/16 in. (22 x 18.5 x 2 cm)

Credit LineMuseum of International Folk Art, bequest of Cady Wells, A9.1954.2 R

Object numberA9.1954.2 R

Collections

Folk Art of New Mexico

ProvenanceAcquired from Elmer Shupe, gift to Cady Wells

DescriptionFigure in kneeling pose is drawn in a naive way which suggest that it is in levitation. Solid green border on panel was broken to allow for the drawing of the tiny feet. Smooth shaven, full face, large red halo, customary black robe. Upper right corner has green oulined triangle with red bow and arrow form and red dots along green border. At left is an altar with exposed legs like the hand hewn ones made in New Mexico, with a red, green and yellow cover or cloth at top. On this are a cross and biretta.