Tlalnepantla: the convento murals

In a previous post we visited the grand early Franciscan monastery at Tlalnepantla with its fine early sculpted atrium cross. Here is a look at its few surviving 16th century murals:

The Convento and its Murals

Behind the long, colonnaded porteria, lies the airy, stone flagged cloister, with its Tuscan arcades and sculpted Gothic doorways.  Although the walks and arches have been assiduously whitewashed, revealing little trace of early narrative murals, some of the surrounding painted grotesque friezes and framing panels have survived, many in excellent if much restored condition.

   

Mostly rendered in a warm, sepia grisaille, they also include remnant portraits of Franciscan saints, friars and bishops, as well as fragmentary details of frescoes that once adorned the corner niches.

St Clare

Dove of the Holy Spirit with stars

text © 2020 Richard D. Perry

images by the author, Niccolo Brooker and ELTB with appreciation