San Jose

Copied Arce group, San Jose, late 19th-early 20th century, carved and painted wood with metal, 6 142 342 58 in. (15.97.06.7 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Teodoro Vidal Collection, 1996.91.29
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Artwork Details

Title
San Jose
Artist
Arce group
Date
late 19th-early 20th century
Dimensions
6 142 342 58 in. (15.97.06.7 cm.)
Credit Line
Teodoro Vidal Collection
Mediums
Mediums Description
carved and painted wood with metal
Classifications
Keywords
  • Religion — New Testament — Christ
  • Religion — saint — St. Joseph
Object Number
1996.91.29

Artwork Description

Joseph was a popular subject for artists in Spain and in the colonies. He is often shown as an old man with a budding staff in his hand, symbolizing God’s selection of him to be Mary’s husband. His other symbols are carpenter’s tools and the lily, a symbol of purity.