Religious Painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe by M. M. Sánchez – Oil on Canvas, Signed
This is an original devotional painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe, signed in the lower right corner by M. M. Sánchez ("M. M. Sánchez pint. f."). The work appears to be oil on a mother-of-pearl shell surface, a traditional Mexican technique that adds iridescence and depth, especially in religious art. The painting is highly detailed, framed by meticulously hand-painted roses that enhance the sacred aura of the central figure. The Virgin is rendered in a classical pose, following established iconography from colonial and post-colonial Mexican art. The frame is particularly notable: a richly decorated wooden frame with intricate geometric inlay work, surrounding a velvet mat that adds contrast and visual elegance. A small plaque at the bottom reads “Manuel Sanchez”, possibly indicating the full name of the artist. The condition is very good for its age. The colors are vivid, the shell substrate appears intact, and the painting surface shows only minimal signs of age or handling. The back of the piece has not been opened, so internal mounting condition is unknown. No certificate or provenance is available, but the piece has remained in private hands for many years and is believed to have been created in the mid-20th century, possibly earlier.
Painting only: approx. 25 x 15 cm With frame: approx. 40 x 30 cm
Inherited
Yes
Hello, this item is a mid-20th century devotional painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe signed “M. M. Sánchez pint. fᵉ” and executed in oil on a mother-of-pearl shell substrate, a traditional Mexican technique that enhances the iridescence of religious iconography. The Virgin is depicted in the classical pose, surrounded by hand-painted pink roses and enclosed within a fine wooden frame featuring geometric inlay and a velvet mat. The artist is likely Manuel M. Sánchez, though further documentation is needed to confirm this attribution definitively.
This painting reflects the continuation of colonial religious traditions adapted into post-revolutionary Mexican devotional art. The use of mother-of-pearl as a surface medium was once reserved for high-end ecclesiastical works, and although this piece is relatively recent, its craftsmanship and visual impact remain strong. Given the quality of materials, signature, and preservation, the fair market value is estimated between $600 and $1,000 USD.
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