After I had shown Alejandro the underground archaeological site at the Spanish Cultural Center, he then showed me something downtown which I had never seen. Just a block away is the "Colegio Nacional".
The "Colegio Nacional" is not a college, but an honorary academy with an exclusive membership composed of the country's leading scientists, writers and artists. I have passed by the building numerous times, and never realized that it was open to the public.
The building dates back to the 18th century and was originally the Convent of La Enseñanza.
The "colegio" sponsors periodic exhibitions. At this time there is show relating to Mexican cuisine. Here are some of the items on display in the exhibit.
This lid to an incense burner in the shape of an ear of corn comes from Teotihuacan and is around 1500 years old.
A small figurine, 2000 years old, shows a woman grinding corn on a stone "metate".
This ceramic vessel in the shape of a pumpkin comes from the west coast state of Colima and dates from between AD 100 and 400.
A 19th century painting of a food vendor
In Nativity scenes, Bethlehem is transported to Mexico with figures of villagers in traditional attire bringing food to the Baby Jesus.
Many Mexican recipes had their origens in convent kitchens. In this miniature scene, the nuns are making candy.
After viewing the exhibit, it was time for us to go eat.
That was a well put together exhibit!
ReplyDeleteYes, an even larger exhibit of food portrayed in art is still running at the National Museum of Art.
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