Our Lady of Mercy with St. Peter Nolasco and Raymond Nonnatus

This Latin American colonial painting depicts the Virgin of Mercy, dressed in an opulent white robe adorned with golden details and wearing a royal crown, symbolizing her celestial majesty. Her mantle bears the Mercedarian emblem on her chest, reinforcing her connection to the Order of Mercy and its mission of redemption. The Virgin holds a richly dressed Child Jesus, emphasizing her maternal and protective role.

On either side of her are Saint Peter Nolasco, kneeling in his white Mercedarian habit, and Saint Raymond Nonnatus, dressed in red and white, expressing their venerated devotion. Saint Raymond is identifiable by the padlock on his mouth, a characteristic attribute referencing his martyrdom. To the left, a saint wearing a blue and gold robe, likely Saint Joseph, is recognizable by the white lily, symbolizing his purity. On the right, another bearded elder may represent Saint Augustine or a patriarch linked to the Mercedarian order.
The celestial background, filled with angels and cherubs surrounding the Virgin, is typical of the Cuzco Baroque style, characterized by abundant use of gold, intricate ornamentation, and rich color contrasts. The gold leaf details enhance the sumptuousness and showcase the strong European artistic influence, reinterpreted through indigenous aesthetics.

This artwork is not only a devotional piece but also a remarkable example of the religious and artistic syncretism that defined Andean Viceregal Art.