The Immaculate Conception

With the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, it was stated that the mother of Christ, despite having been the product of a carnal relationship, had been conceived free of all sin. This belief gave rise to harsh disputes between the different religious orders in New Granada.

Mary is shown on an altar and framed by curtains, elements that allow us to recognize this painting as a “true portrait,” miraculous sculptures that were copied since it was considered that the reproductions maintained the prodigious character of the original piece.

In this image, the Virgin is shown accompanied by the common attributes of the Immaculate Conception: a white tunic over which a blue mantle is arranged, both adorned with golden stars and precious stones. 

Seeking to humanize this holy image and bring it closer to the faithful, these rich vestments were added to the sculptures. This practice is known as “indumentaria postiza”, which translates to “false clothing.” 

The Virgin's mantle is represented in a triangular shape, an Andean typology that alludes to the mountains and their relationship with Pachamama, an Inca divinity that represents Mother Earth. This element shows the syncretism between European and indigenous religiosity.

On her head, the woman wears a richly decorated crown, surrounded by solar rays and twelve stars. The latter can be understood as a reference to the twelve apostles, the twelve tribes of Israel, or the twelve privileges that God granted to the Virgin.

On each side of the mantle, there is a moon whose tips point upward, an attribute that the Catholic Church associates with evil. At the feet of the mother of Christ, there are three cherubs, highlighting her divine character. 

Below these, you can see the head of an animal similar to a dragon, a direct reference to 'evil' which is often linked to the enemies of the Catholic faith.

The female figure is surrounded by numerous solar radiances, an attribute that is also interpreted in different ways: it can be associated with the figure of Christ, the virtues of Mary, or as a symbol of the sun of justice.