About the San José 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 José (Saint Joseph). An original design by the artist, her art print is decoupaged upon hand-carved pine wood in traditional form. The reverse side includes a hole for hanging on the wall and a short story of the saint's life:
San Jose (Joseph) is celebrated as the patron saint of fathers, carpenters, workers, and happy deaths. Joseph was descended from the royal line of David, from which it was said the Messiah would come. Though we know little of Joseph from the gospels, we can assume he was a good, loving, and pious man - it was he God had chosen to be Jesus' earthly father, protector, and guide. The young Jesus learned from Joseph's example. When Joseph learned that Mary was with child he was deeply disturbed until an angel came to speak to him. An angel also urged him to take the Holy Family into Egypt to escape the wrath of Herod, who was murdering all boys in Bethlehem. Jesus was thought to be at Joseph's side on his deathbed. Thus, Joseph is also the patron of happy deaths. In some parts of the world it is traditional to bury a picture or statue of Joseph upside down when one wishes to sell a house.
'San José, Christ's earthly father, may I learn from your example of love and faith. I humbly ask for your assistance with my task. My Gratitude will be forever yours.'
Order 2 or more retablos and receive 15% off each - use coupon code 15retablos in your shopping cart!
~ Handmade in the USA ~
size: | 3.5" wide x 6.5" high x 0.75" thick |
weight: | 5 oz. |
materials: | wood |
* USA Shipping Costs: Includes all 50 United States, Puerto Rico, and all APO/FPO Addresses: |
|||||
your order total: |
Standard Shipping |
Expedited |
|||
$0.00 to | $21.99 ... | $ 3.99 | $ 9.99 | ||
$22.00 to | $39.99 ... | $ 4.99 | $ 14.99 | ||
$30.00 to | $74.99 ... | $ 6.99 | $ 16.99 | ||
$75.00 to | and up ... | $ Free | $ 9.99 | ||
Expedited shipping: Most expedited orders ship the same day if received by 2:00 PM EST (11:00AM PST). This applies to US residents only. Please note: some oversized products ship directly from the artisan's studio and will take longer to arrive. These individual items are noted in the product description. |
actual cost calculated in shopping cart
(See the shipping info page below for a list of all international countries currently supported)