Virgin of Quito

This dynamic piece portrays a resolute Virgin Mary battling a serpent-like Satan. First created by Ecuadorian sculptor Bernardo de Legarda in 1734, the “Virgin of Quito” became a prevalent, culturally specific representation of Mary. Also called “Dancing Madonna,” the artwork is distinguished from more static European Madonnas through active gestures. The popularity of Legarda’s work spurred artists throughout the northern Andes to create countless replicas. Today, the largest of these overlooks Quito from a high hilltop, El Panecillo.