San Acacio

NamePainting

Maker Molleno (New Mexican, 1815 - 1845)

CultureHispanic American

Date1804-1845

Place madeNew Mexico, United States, North America

Mediumpine gesso and paint

DimensionsOverall: 10 5/8 x 7 7/8 x 13/16 in. (27 x 20 x 2 cm)

Credit LineMuseum of International Folk Art, bequest of Cady Wells, A9.1954.35 R

Object numberA9.1954.35 R

DescriptionTan background, dark red foreground, black cross, to which figure is tied by writsts and feet, rather than nailed. The costume is an excellent documentation of contemporary dress, with puce colored long jacket, with small turnover collar and fancy pockets, marks indicating braid ornament at cuffs (no turnover of cuffs). Unbottoned to show white shirt underneath. Terra cotta colored breeches have 3 white buttons each. Botas of same color seem to be closely wrapped on legs instead of hanging free and have turnover cuffs edged with dark dots and white lines down sides. Feet appear to wear dark low shoes with white bows or buckles. A pair of lances painted in dark earth red stand from foreground to arms of St. Acacius, as symbols of his military escort at his crucifixion. Delicate flowering plants in dull green and earth red fill background. Face is large for body with flowing black hair, no head dress, and thin grey beard. The eyes are large and dark with fine red shades lids.