The slender beauty of an image
In one of the side altarpieces in the monastery church of Sty. Anthony of Padua, in Ticul, built in the first half of the 17th century, there is a Black Christ of carved wood, striking for the leanness of its lines.
Although the date it was made is unknown, its stylistic features suggest it would have been carved in the 17th century.
The Black Christ does not have a patronal feast, but nevertheless he holds great religious significance for the locals, who afford him great reverence, and bring their prayers to his altar.
The image stands on a pedestal inside a niche decorated with gilded plant motifs, and forms a sculptural group with images of Our Lady of Sorrows and St. Veronica at the foot of the Cross, enhancing the beauty of the piece.
Restoration work carried out in 2023 revealed that the Christ on this revered image was not originally black, but flesh-colored. The reason for the change to its present skin tone, or when it happened, are unknown.
The Black Christ at Ticul can be viewed during the times of religious services in the church.
According to Dr. Miguel Güémez Pineda, Ticul means “place populated by kul (a lovely species of bush)”, from ti a prefix of place, and kul the name of the bush. It is located 87 kilometers (54 miles) south of Merida.
Location