Plate 5: Main Altarpiece, Santa Cruz: From Portfolio "Spanish Colonial Designs of New Mexico"

American 20th Century

National Gallery of Art

The image displays a composition of vertical rectangles, arches, and curved lines forming an abstract pattern. Stylized floral motifs are centered amidst vertical columns. A semi-circular shape with an abstract design is positioned above, while below a row of colorful squares are panels resembling a theatrical curtain with horizontal stripes and ornamental swirls. The artwork conveys elements of classical architecture and decorative arts through a complex, symmetrical arrangement.