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· Sancho Panza ·
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. . . This is an authentic original by well-known Mexican mid-century folk artist wood carver
Jose Pinal . . . Purchased years ago by my grandfather during a sailing trip to Mazatlán (located in
the Mexican state of Sinaloa) as part of a set of three Don Quixote themed characters I have listed—This one
of course personifies the character of Sancho Panza (or Zancas), a simple farmer whom Don Quixote
takes as his squire; immortalized by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra of Spain in his novel, fully titled El ingenioso
hidalgo don Quixote de la Mancha (English translation: The Ingenious Nobleman Mister Quixote of La Mancha);
it is the story of a man named Alonso Quijano who decides to be a knight and practice true knightly aims
such as chivalry, a dying and unrealistic ideal, with his ever-faithful companion realist Sancho at his side . . .
. . . The sculpture depicts our clever sidekick—a short, pot-bellied peasant—as he obediently
follows his master, despite being sometimes puzzled by Quixote's actions . . .
. . . Born in 1913, Pinal was often referred to as the “Mexican Picasso” and displayed his first carvings
at the San Francisco World's Fair Exhibition in 1939 . . . Subsequent to the artist's death in 1983,
Pinal's wood carvings have become increasingly sought after collectors' items . . .
. . . The base upon which the figure is mounted features his carved signature "J. Pinal" etched into the surface . . .
. . . The sculpture is of moderate size, reaching a total height of approximately 11 inches . . .
. . . This would undoubtedly make a great mantle piece or tabletop display, shelf figurine or desk ornament
in the home or office, perhaps in one's personal library or study room . . .
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