Retablo of Saint Teresa of Ávila

“While a very popular subject in Spanish Colonial art, St. Teresa of Ávila (1515–1582) was rarely depicted in Mexican retablos. Like many retablo compositions, [this one] was inspired by a French chromolithograph. Teresa [who was a Spanish Carmelite nun] is shown in prayer, kneeling in front of an altar which bears a crucifix and a single candle. On the wall perpendicular to the altar is a framed image of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, recalling portrayals of the Heavenly and Earthly Trinities. In an alcove behind Teresa is a writing table, chair, ink pot, and shelf of books, all attributes of her activity as an author, as well as a skull, a reminder of the brevity of human life. The image of the Holy Family next to Teresa illustrates an historical truth: she was an avid collector of sacred art.

This rare retablo of St. Teresa is soldered into an equally unusual contemporary tin and reverse painted glass frame. The word Carmel means ‘garden’ or ‘orchard,’ and, because of its luxuriant verdure, Mt. Carmel was renowned in the Biblical world for its fertility and beauty. Consequently, the frame’s elegantly painted flowers against a gold foil background beautifully complement the image of the Mother of Carmel in prayer.” (Rev. Joseph F. Chorpenning, O.S.F.S., S.T.L., Ph.D., notes in curatorial file for 05.OP.619)