Patron Saint Retablo Plaque - San Judas the Apostle

About the 'San Judas' Retablo Plaque

Long a popular folk art form in colonial Spanish and Mexican culture, retablos are devotional paintings depicting divine icons and symbols, particularly Catholic patron saints. Chosen as representations and guardians of particular occupations and life situations, patron saints are often turned to in times of need or to express gratitude for a blessing. Displayed in homes to honor the saint or given as gifts of fortune and inspiration, retablos reflect a beloved historical tradition and cultural artistry.

Made by hand in New Mexico, this retablo plaque honors San Judas Tadeo (known as Saint Jude the Apostle in English). An original design by the artist, her art print is decoupaged upon handcarved pine wood in traditional form. The reverse side includes a hole for hanging and a story of the saint's life.

Judas (or Jude) is one of the 12 apostles according to the New Testament. His letter stresses that the faithful should persevere in the environment of difficult circumstances just as their forefathers had done. While providing missionary work in Persia with St Simon, the two were beaten to death (martyred) in 65 AD. The early Church ignored his story because he shares his name with that of the other Judas who betrayed Christ. In traditional imagery, St Jude is shown with a flame upon his head to represent his receiving of the Holy Spirit. In addition, Judas holds a depiction of Christ to symbolize the Image of Edessa, a cloth on which the image of Christ appeared. The cloth is a holy relic and is considered the very first image of Christ.

In modern times, Saint Jude is invoked in times of great need and is recognized as the patron of hopeless causes. His feast day is celebrated on October 28th.

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~ Handmade in the USA ~