Lives of the Santos

Lives of the Santos

When they arrived on Puerto Rico, Spanish missionaries spread the word of God and fostered a spirited folk art. Since few people were literate, the missionaries often commissioned local artisans to create pictures and statues depicting Bible stories and saints or santos. These figures -- fashioned of wood, clay, stone, or even gold -- are still given a place of honor in homes throughout the island.

Early santeros (carvers) were influenced by the Spanish baroque style. Later figures are simple and small, averaging about 8 inches tall. The carving of santos is usually a family tradition, and most of today's santeros have no formal art training. San Germán has been associated with santos-making since the origins of the art form, and the Rivera family has been known for its carvings for more than 150 years.

Each santo has a traditional characteristic. You can spot the Virgin by her blue robes, St. Francis by the accompanying birds and animals, St. Barbara by her tower, and the Holy Spirit by its hovering dove. St. John, the island's patron saint, is an ever-popular subject, as is the Nativity, which might be just the Holy Family, or the family with an entire cast of herald angels, shepherds, and barnyard animals.

Carvings of Los Santos Reyes (The Three Kings) are also popular. Their feast day, January 6, is important on Puerto Rico. Celebrations often continue for days before or after the actual holiday, when it's difficult to find a home without these regal characters. In Puerto Rico one king is often strumming the cuatro, an island guitar.

-Karen English