Lecture Notes: Miguel Cabrera and His Art

Introduction to Miguel Cabrera

• Most popular artist of his time, comparable to Michelangelo or Leonardo in Western art.
• Close ties with the Jesuits, but painted for the Collegia de Guadalupe.
• Notable for exquisite draftsmanship: drawing before painting.
• Active in the second half of the 18th century.

Key Works and Contributions

Painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe

• Painted from the original cloak of Juan Diego.
• Authored "Maravilla America" (1756) blending enlightenment, science, faith, and devotion.

Religious Commissions

• Known for unique depictions of Christ, such as the "Divine Spouse" image.
  • Commissioned for convents; symbolizes a nun's spiritual marriage to Christ.
  • Rich symbolism in colors and flowers, typical of Renaissance Europe.

Costa Paintings

• Unique to colonial Mexico; essentially racial profiling.
• Depicted racial hierarchies with 16 squares showing mixed heritage.
• Displays societal status and wealth related to racial purity.

Example of Costa Paintings

• Cabrera's series included 16 paintings, now scattered globally.
• Rediscovery of missing paintings, such as one found rolled under a couch.
  • Example: Español y Morisca with child "alabina" (fair-skinned).

Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz

• Most important woman of the 17th century in Mexico.
• Recognized from the Mexican 200 peso bill.
• Child prodigy, knowledgeable in various fields including science and literature.
• Lived in a convent with the Hieronymite Order.
• Known for her intellectual pursuits, depicted in art looking directly at the viewer.

Influence of Asian Art

• Folding screens, known as "biombo," show Asian influence in colonial Mexico.
• Cabrera created a remarkable folding screen, a testament to his artistic skill.

Conclusion

• Miguel Cabrera's art was significant in blending cultural, religious, and racial themes of colonial Mexico.
• His work remains influential and is recognized for its technical skill and cultural impact.