Plate 15: The Creation (Lunette): From Portfolio "Spanish Colonial Designs of New Mexico"

American 20th Century

National Gallery of Art

The image depicts a decorative design with an angelic figure and ornamental patterns. At the top, there is a half-circle design featuring an angel-like figure with blue wings and a halo, portrayed in vibrant reds, blues, and browns. The angel is shown in a dynamic pose, holding a scroll-like object while wearing flowing garments. Surrounding the figure are stylized, symmetrical, organic shapes resembling plants or flames, creating colorful, intricate patterns in red, blue, and beige tones. Below, there is a horizontal band with a repeating pattern of scalloped shapes in red and gray, suggesting an ornamental border or frieze. The painting's style reflects traditional iconography and folk art with bold colors and simplified forms.