Conversion of an Andean Nobleman

This canvas (c. 1700–1730) depicts a nobleman’s conversion to Christianity, inspired by the Virgin of Copacabana, during the evangelization of the Andes. Indigenous peoples are shown with funerary idols, condemned by the Catholic Church as demonic. Viceroyal authorities promoted such artworks to depict the destruction of huacas . The painting contrasts the nobleman’s past idolatry with his new Christian life, symbolized by baptism and communion, underscored by a Latin inscription.