Nicolás Enríquez de Vargas (Mexico, 1704-1790)
Our Lady of Guadalupe
Oil on copper
85×67 cm
This delicate painting of Our Lady of Guadalupe is by Nicolás Enríquez de Vargas, an artist from Mexico City active in the 18th century. Initially thought to be from Guadalajara, recent research corrected his birthplace to Mexico City in 1704. Enríquez was influenced by Nicolás Rodríguez Juárez, his master and fellow Academy member.
The painting, executed in oil on copper, reflects the Marian iconography of Our Lady of Guadalupe, depicting the Virgin with a dark blue mantle adorned with gold stars, standing on a silver crescent moon. Her serene, indigenous-inspired visage and the angel below add to the painting’s mysticism.
The artwork, signed and dated to the late 18th century, mirrors the traditional iconography of the Virgin, emphasizing her role in Mexican cultural and religious heritage.