Indulgence for donation of alms towards the building of a Church to the Virgin of Guadalupe (modern facsimile impression) 1608 - 1940

This engraving, by Samuel Stradanus, likely dates from the late 16th or early 17th century. It advertises indulgences for alms given toward the building of a church to the Virgin of Guadalupe. The image offers a window into the complex interplay of religion, politics, and economics in colonial Mexico. The central image of the Virgin, a powerful symbol of Mexican identity, is framed by scenes of daily life and devotion. The text, in Spanish, reinforces the authority of the Church and the Archbishop of Mexico, Don Juan de la Serna, in granting indulgences. This was a common practice at the time, but one that was increasingly questioned for its potential for abuse. The print reflects the Catholic Church's efforts to consolidate its power in the New World and to raise funds for its ambitious building projects. By studying such images alongside archival documents, such as church records and financial accounts, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social and institutional forces that shaped colonial Mexican society.