Overview
A hand-carved wooden 'Sacred Heart' featuring a vibrant polychrome flame and a dense covering of metal charms known as milagros.
Preliminary identification
Mexican Folk Art Milagro Heart (Corazón con Milagros)
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
The tradition of 'milagros' (Spanish for 'miracles') dates back to the Spanish colonial era, evolving from ancient European ex-voto traditions.
Maker / Origin
While typically unsigned, these pieces are the products of multi-generational family workshops in regions like Pátzcuaro or Oaxaca.
Condition & Value
The piece appears to be in good vintage condition with a nice aged patina on the metal charms. There is some minor paint loss on the red and gold flames, which is consistent with age and handling. The fact that it appears to have all its charms intact is a positive for its value.
Full Research
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD