Crowned Nun

I have always been fascinated by ‘crowned nuns’, or ‘monjas coronadas’, a famous type of portrait from the colonial Spanish Americas that depict nuns wearing elaborate floral crowns. The nun is usually lying in state with a flower crown and palm, two elements of enormous significance during the viceregal era, since they are associated with the death of the just. They can only be worn by martyrs, for example, or baptized children who died very small, without any sin. I once had a dog named Harry that I have always wanted to honor in a similar way so I made my own crowned nun painting. Swipe left for additional images

Caption: In memoriam of Harry the Dog. Today, we remember Harry, who miraculously appeared at our door in 1977. For 15 years, she was a constant source of love, loyalty, and comfort. Though she has now left us, Harry’s spirit will forever remain in our hearts. Harry liked to offer tricks for treats, take long naps and chase cats. We are grateful for the gift of her love, and while she may no longer walk among us, her memory continues to inspire and comfort everyone that knew her. 

Soft pastel and pastel colored pencil on industrial grade sanded paper. 20 inches vertical x 14 inches horizontal. January 2025