On View
Not on viewObject number2020.28
Tehuanas
Artist
Rosa Rolanda
(American, 1895 - 1970)
Dateca. 1935-1940
Mediumgouache on paper (gouache sobre papel)
DimensionsOverall: 10 3/4 × 6 5/8 in. (27.3 × 16.8 cm)
Credit LineGift of Dr. Edward (Ted) Lance-Gomez Family in memory of Rosa Marcela Calderón de Lance
Label TextThis work demonstrates Rosa Rolanda’s mastery in creating unique spatial planes and illuminates the vibrancy of Mexican culture. In Tehuanas, the artist conveys the beauty and elegance of an esteemed group of Mexican women, wearing garments signifying their heritage. The Tehuana are a celebrated matriarchal society in Oaxaca, Mexico. The artist presents women clothed similarly in embroidered dresses with lace embellishments. Each woman is adorned meticulously. The last woman wears gold-drop earrings and holds a yellow fan, while a braid encircles her head, crowned by a single flower that recalls a dove. The other two women have similar floral wreaths on their heads and both wear chokers, and the woman in the direct foreground holds a blue handkerchief similar in coloring to the first woman’s bodice. What is the connection between these women? Regardless of their connection the women are an alluring group, exhibiting a refined dignity. Born in Los Angeles, California, Rosa Rolanda’s parents were of Scottish and Mexican descent. Rolanda was deeply inspired by Mexican culture. In her travels throughout the country, she memorialized local customs, settings, and styles of dress. This work not only celebrates the artistic talents of an important woman artist and her Mexican heritage, but also acknowledges the life of Rosa Marcela Calderón de Lance, whose family facilitated this gift and who too was very proud of her Mexican heritage. Tehuanas is an exquisite painting by Rosa Rolanda that not only honors Mexican heritage and womanhood but also reveals the vast richness of experiences contributing to American culture. [Collection Highlight]
