visual gratitude

Retablos are paintings on tin used as votive offerings. Retablos were part of home altars, whereas ex-votos were placed in pilgrimage churches. The word "retablo" derives from the Latin term retro tabula for “behind the altar”.

Generally ,retablos have an inscription stating the reason why it's being offered. From retablo themes, we learn what were the main preoccupations of those who had them painted (there were folk artists specialized in retablos). Themes such as health, social life, crime and emotional relationships.

The word ex-voto is derived from the Latin “the promise of,” or “the miracle of .” It is the recognition of "grazie ricevute" (graces granted) and is offered as payment for a promise made. An ex-voto is an offering to those who have interceeded in our behalf.

Gratitude is not a crime, she said