Saturday, May 17, 2008 at 11:00AM



The Hispanic Society of America and the Mexican Cultural Institute of New York present: 

Gallery Talk
Santiago Matamoros
Mexico, 1575-1600
Polychrome and gilded wood relief

The 16th-century Mexican sculptural relief depicts Santiago Matamoros (St. James the Moorslayer). According to Spanish legend, the saint appeared at the battle of Clavijo where he led the Christian forces to victory over the Moorish invaders. As seen in this relief, he is traditionally portrayed riding triumphantly on a white horse and trampling a vanquished Moorish soldier. Carved for a large altar which no longer exists, the work offers a rare and fascinating glimpse into Mexican art of this time. Moreover, because so little sculpture survives from this date, it is particularly noteworthy. As the Spanish settled in the New World, the Catholic church embarked on an ambitious program of church building and decoration, and this relief corresponds to this activity. Probably executed by a native-born artist who had received training in European styles, the relief reflects a mix of visual conventions as local artists assimilated Spanish traditions.

Conservation treatment on this recent acquisition has just been completed. Using both traditional techniques and modern methods, Hispanic Society conservators have returned the piece as much as possible to its original condition. Consequently, the relief once more affords impressive proof of the sculptor’s talent and the sculptural riches found in 16th-century Mexico.

With Dr. Patrick Lenaghan, Curator of Prints and Photographs and Helene Fontoira, Conservator.

The Hispanic Society
613 West 155th Street
New York, NY 10032
www.hispanicsociety.org 

Reception to follow.
RSVP: icumexny@sre.gob.mx or 212.217.6478


With the support of