This retablo of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores (Our Lady of Sorrows) by. Is a classic example of contemporary New Mexican devotional art that honors centuries-old Santero traditions. Description of the Artwork. The painting features the Virgin Mary in a moment of profound spiritual grief. Key visual elements typical of Robles-Shaw’s style include. Iconography: Mary is depicted with a single sword piercing her heart, a direct visual reference to the prophecy of Simeon (“and a sword will pierce your own soul too”). Color Palette: She is traditionally dressed in a red or dark gown with a deep blue mantle, colors that symbolize both her humanity and her heavenly grace. Composition: The figure is rendered with the “warm elegance” characteristic of the artist, featuring stylized, expressive facial features and clean lines that emphasize the somber mood of the piece. Materials: Created on a hand-carved wood panel (likely pine), the piece uses natural pigments and a traditional gesso base to achieve the matte, aged appearance seen in 18th and 19th-century Spanish Colonial art. Who is Nuestra Señora de los Dolores? Nuestra Señora de los Dolores is one of the most significant and beloved titles of the Virgin Mary in New Mexican culture. She represents the “Seven Sorrows” of Mary’s life, ranging from the flight into Egypt to the crucifixion of Jesus. The Mother of Compassion: She is viewed as a figure who understands human suffering, loss, and mourning. For many, she is a source of strength during times of personal trial. Cultural Importance: In the Southwest, she is the patroness of many villages and is frequently invoked for protection and empathy. Her image is a staple in moradas (meeting houses) and home altars (nichos). Symbolism: While she is sometimes depicted with seven swords representing each of her sorrows, the single sword (as seen here) focuses the viewer’s attention on the singular, piercing pain of the Passion. The Artist: Catherine Robles-Shaw. Catherine Robles-Shaw is one of the most respected santeras (makers of saintly images) in the American Southwest. Based in Nederland, Colorado, she is deeply rooted in the traditions of her New Mexican heritage. Catherine began her artistic journey after a successful career in the corporate world, felt a spiritual calling to reconnect with her roots. She is widely celebrated for her ability to maintain the authenticity of colonial-era styles while infusing each piece with a distinct, warm elegance. Her work has been featured in prestigious institutions like the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art in Santa Fe and is highly sought after by collectors of religious and folk art worldwide.
