Don Angel Ayala 

William Spratling made this lithograph titled "Don Angel Ayala," depicting a man focused on his craft. Spratling was an American-born artist and silversmith who lived and worked in Taxco, Mexico. Here, he captures a local artisan deeply engaged in his work. The man's intense gaze and the careful positioning of his hands draws the viewer's eye, emphasizing the value of the artisan's skill. The image is a celebration of local craftsmanship at a time when the Mexican government was actively promoting national identity through its artistic heritage. Spratling's choice to depict Ayala, an indigenous craftsman, aligns with this post-revolutionary sentiment that was meant to value Mexico's cultural roots and elevate the status of indigenous people. To fully appreciate this piece, consider the broader context of the Mexican cultural renaissance of the time. Historical archives, museum collections, and studies in economic history, will reveal the interwoven narratives of art, politics, and indigenous identity.