Identity and culture in "A Lenda do Negrinho do Pastoreio"

"Negrinho do Pastoreio" is a well-known  folk legend in southern Brazil. Of African and Christian origin, it emerged in the mid-19th century and tells the story of an enslaved boy who suffers from the punishment of his master and receives a miracle from Our Lady.

Like most popular stories, the legend of the shepherd boy has several versions. Locatelli's murals fascinate for their expressiveness and richness of colors that convey the feelings that the story provokes.

On the left side, we see a man, dressed in a gaucho costume, holding a boy, who appears to be struggling, with one leg stretched out in front of him. On the left is an enslaved boy pulling a horse by the reins.

In the center, two male figures dressed in gaucho costumes, shake hands. In the center, as if dividing the painting, appears the trunk of a tree. On the left, a male figure appears stroking a horse.   

The boy rides a horse that has its front legs raised, in an unruly attitude. Behind, another rider continues to run. On the left side, a male figure, with his back turned, wearing a poncho, points to the two knights.

The neighboring farmer, who had his victory, shares with the people of the region the thousand ounces of gold. Amount that was staked.

After losing the race the boy is harshly punished by his lord. Which in addition to whipping him forces him to herd 30 of his best horses.   

Frightened and fearing further punishment, the boy lights a candle to Our Lady and asks Heaven for help in the task.

Carrying the candle stump that was on the virgin's altar, the boy leaves to carry out his task of herding the horses. As the candle melts, the wax forms points of light that help to light the way.   

In a final act, the boy ascends to heaven on horseback. A story that moves us and makes us reflect.