Handmade Holy Week Wood Retablo (Peru)

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.

Product Features -
Weight - 1.76 lbs
Dimension - 16.75" H x 10.25" W x 1.8" D
Color - Multicolor
Material - Plywood and ceramic
Signed by the artist
Hand-crafted item -- color, size and/or motif may vary slightly
Made in Peru

Story Behind The Art -
Alejandro Chávez was born on January 30, 1956. He specializes in the creations of retablos, a kind of reverent diorama-altar typical of the Ayacucho region of Peru. He learned this technique as a boy in school, when he was 17 years old and living in Ayacucho, where his parents moved when he was just 2 years old.  When Chávez returned to his hometown, he began working in the studio of Angel Castro, a master artisan. Here he refined his techniques in the creation of retablos, eagerly learning the art from his teacher. Later, Chávez formed his own workshop after the death of his teacher, continuing to give shape to this art form. The customs and traditions of the Andean people emerge in every piece. In every one of my creations I hope you will be able to recognize my great love for this art form. You will also fine the contributions of my wife as well, for she molds the characters. I am currently teaching my nieces and nephews as well. I sincerely hope that you enjoy your retablo, which brings together the culture and traditions of the Andes.