Historic Mexican Artwork Now on Display at Holman Biotech Commons

Explore Mexican history through an extensive display of ex-votos and devotional paintings from the Dr. William H. Helfand collection. Located on the main level of Holman Biotech Commons, outside of the Reading Room (see floor plan), the exhibit will be on display through October 2025

Spanning from 1868 to 2002, ex-votos recount the challenges and subsequent divine interventions experienced by worshippers. They often display health-related miracles pertaining to such disasters as car accidents, earthquakes, and animal attacks. Dedicated to Christian Saints, ex-votos are usually displayed in churches and other religious spaces.

Ex-votos originated in Mexico during the 16th Century where it was practiced by the upper class. After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, this artform gradually spread to the lower class. Expensive materials were replaced with common tin and more personalized styles were developed.

The exhibit is curated by Manuel de la Cruz Gutierrez, Director for the Holman Biotech Commons, Elizabeth Blake, Eugene Garfield Resident in Science Librarianship, and Samantha Hill, Curator of Civic Engagement at the Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts.    

UPenn students, staff, and faculty are encouraged to visit during library hours. All other visitors are welcome on weekdays before 6:00 p.m. Find more information to plan your visit.