Describe how the retablo and high altar of the Church of San José at Old Laguna Pueblo, the work of the Laguna Santero, combines different cultural practices and principles
What will be an ideal response?
Answer: The ideal answer should include:
1. Pueblo and Christian traditions are unified in the design.
2. The high altar is covered with floral motifs that approximate European woven tapestries.
3. Images depict Christian saints (St. Joseph holding the Christ Child, St. John Nepomuk, and St. Barbara) and Christian themes such as the Trinity.
4. Also incorporated in the ensemble are Pueblo motifs, including a buffalo skin painted with the sun, moon, and stars; symbols of the Horned Water Snake, god of lightning and rain; and three mountains with the eyes and mouth of a kachina.
Art & Culture