A cool set of four risque / taboo / humorous "Underworld" ex-votos / retablos attributed to Alfredo Vilchis, circa 2010. A provocative and vibrantly transgressive collectio of contemporary Mexican ex-votos (retablos), attributed to the legendary "neighborhood artist" of Mexico City, Alfredo Vilchis Roque. This quartet serves as a masterclass in the "New Retablo" movement, where the centuries-old tradition of Catholic gratitude is subverted to document the gritty, scandalous, and darkly comedic "miracles" of the urban fringe. Each piece is in a "deliberate distressed condition" to mimic the weathered look of 19th-century antiques, and each measure approximately 9.5"W x 6"H.
Moving far beyond traditional prayers for health, these works depict the raw and often taboo intersections of desire, mishaps, and divine intervention. The collection features:
-The Courtesan’s Epiphany: A dramatic scene of a sex worker who, after surviving a life-threatening allergic reaction to a client's semen, offers infinite thanks to Saint Martha and vows to leave her trade forever.
-The Forbidden Cousin: A man named S.F. who celebrates his persistent (and successful) pursuit of his cousin into the bedroom, thanking Saint Jude Thaddeus for their ultimate "happiness."
-The Strawberry Jam Incident: A near-fatal mishap involving José Ramos...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Mexican Folk Art Tin Folk Art