colorful cross

After Christ's death on the cross, the image itself came to be venerated as one of the most important Christian symbols. Alejandro Chávez shows an empty cross, graced with a portrait of Jesus. Ladders reach to beams where ofrendas (offerings) have been placed. Figures in traditional Andean dress kneel below the cross, their eyes lifted in devout prayer. Known as a retablo, this traditional diorama is housed in a colorful chest crafted of wood and painted. Chávez carefully models each figure from ceramic plaster and paints them by hand; the retablo receives an antique finish.

Depicting traditional Andean scenes, this miniature wall retablo is handcrafted by artisan Jesus Urbano of Peru. Using a hollowed and cross-cut carrizo reed as the holder and plaster to form the scenery and people, the artisan creates a cheerful, colourful piece of decor that exudes Latin American style.

With this Peruvian retablo, Erika Ulloa pays homage to the sacrifice of Jesus. Crafted of ceramic within a wood box, Jesus on the cross is visited by the Holy Spirit, surrounded by colourful flowers and those who bring him gifts. Erika diligently paints the intricate, tactile composition by hand, opening with floral doors that swing on faux leather hinges.

Crafted by hand, this retablo tells the story of Easter in four scenes. Alejandro Chávez depicts Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and, just above, Jesus on the cross where the devout file past in a religious procession. Mary and the disciples grieve his death by candlelight. Yet he rises again and ascends into heaven. Known as a retablo, this traditional diorama is housed in a colorful chest crafted of wood and painted. Chávez carefully models each figure from ceramic plaster and paints them all by hand.