El Alma de Maria Unknown Mexican folk artist, glazed
ceramic tile
Folk traditions usually embody profound truths. This
contemporary work derives from a long tradition in Spanish-American iconography
known as “El Alma de Maria,” (the soul of Mary) or Nuestra Señora de la Paloma,
(Our Lady of the Dove). The Dove as a symbol of the Holy Spirit often appears
in representations of the Annunciation. In this image the dove also represents
Mary’s “alma,” her soul, the Spirit that not only “overshadows” her at the
moment of the Incarnation but that already dwells within her when she is
greeted as “full of grace.” Mary’s
openness to the Spirit that is both in-dwelling and over-shadowing is the key
to her holiness and to her power.
Observe the facial resemblance of Mary and Jesus for another
powerful insight. They share the same features; Jesus is certainly the son of
Mary. “Consubstantial” with the Father, Jesus also shares the substance of his
mother. The likeness is more than skin deep, however. Notice how the dove
visually completes the triangular design painted on the square tile. The “Spirit
of the Father” unites mother and son, linking their tender relationship to the
eternal Trinitarian love of Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Critics often describe folk art as “naïve” for its lack of
artistic sophistication. Surely, there is nothing naïve about the spiritual tradition
that produced this powerful icon.
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