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Published: February 2nd 2011
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My online photography friend TJ and I happened to be in Tucson at the same time, and decided to go on a photo shoot together. We belong to two photography groups where we upload our photos and discuss our craft.
He was camped in his trailer west of the Tucson Mountains in Tucson Mountain Park. I picked him up at his site in The Beast, and we set out for Mission San Xavier Del Bac several miles to the south, with our photo gear.
The day featured an Arizona blue cloud spangled sky; a perfect backdrop for the white facade of the Franciscan mission situated on the Tohono O’odham Indian Reservation.
The inside of the chapel is adorned with statues, icons, mural paintings and ornamentation; a rich tapestry of historic regional culture.
Construction of the current church began in 1783 and was completed in 1797. Constructed of low-fire clay brick, stone and lime mortor, the entire structure is roofed with masonary vaults.
Little is known about the people who decorated the interior. The artwork was most likely created by artists from Queretero in New Spain (now Mexico). The sculpture was created in guild workshops and carried
by donkey through the Pimeria Alta to its destination at the Mission. Craftsmen created gessoed clothing once the sculpture was in place. There are numerous references to the Franciscan cord both on the facade and throughout the church.
The Baroque architecture style features playful dramatic elements such as theatrical curtain displays, faux doors, marbleing, and overall sense of balance.
Post Script. We are going to have some serious freezing temperatures in Tuscon the next few nights. Burrr!!!
Paddy
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Dave
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Great captures, Paddy. Mare and I have never stopped there . . . seems we're always heading someplace we need to be at a certain time and don't have time, or on our way home afterward and have be be home to feed the cats! One of these days, we'll make it our destination. Thanks for sending. Dave and Mare