jan 1, 1760 - The Virgin of the Apocalypse by Miguel Cabrera

Description:

In 1760, Miguel Cabrera painted “The Virgin of the Apocalypse,” depicting chapter 12 from the Book of Revelations which describes the end of the world and second coming of Christ. Though the Woman of the Apocalypse and the Virgin Mary have been subjected to numerous interpretations, they were understood by Catholics in New Spain to be the same person. Cabrera borrowed from European artists and other Mexican Baroque painted created artworks depicting the same scene, suggesting that this Biblical story was popular and pervasive in New Spain. As discussed by Dr. Melisa Palmero, apocalyptic iconography connected to Marian apparitions and avocations in colonial Mexico as elite creoles used religion to establish and cement their local identities and the greatness of New Spain. The painting connects back to Juan Diego’s apparition and that being used as a justification for colonial Mexico – despite the ongoing violence against Indigenous peoples in the name of the Catholic church. The painting is certainly part of the national mythology of colonial Mexico.

Added to timeline:

Date:

Images: