The Restorers of Chiloé by Rosabetty Muñoz

The restoration of religious statues in the Churches of Chiloé reveals a unique blend of artistry and cultural reverence. Over centuries, wooden carvings of Jesus, Mary, and saints in 21 islands off southern Chile succumbed to weathering. A team of non-religious restorers, collaborating with local fiscal officials and villagers, meticulously repaired these artifacts, demonstrating profound respect for both the objects and their devotees. The process highlights the enduring cultural significance of these statues, even among those not directly involved in religious practices. Photographic documentation by Chilean photographer Mariana Mathews further captures the silent sanctity of Chiloé's saintly imagery, preserved in a digital museum.

Steele, C. (2020). The Restorers of Chiloé by Rosabetty Muñoz. Latin American Literary Review, 47(93). https://doi.org/10.26824/lalr.146