Héctor Rascon 1992 St. Francis Folk Art Santo with 26 Milagros & Blue Birds

Carved in 1992 by beloved New Mexico folk artist Héctor Rascon, this luminous wood sculpture captures the gentle spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and the natural world. Rascon’s figure stands serene and humble, eyes closed in quiet devotion, as two vivid blue birds rest upon his open hands—symbols of peace and divine harmony.

Across the saint’s robe shimmer 26 silver milagros, tiny metal charms shaped as animals and hearts, each representing faith, healing, and gratitude. These votive offerings, deeply rooted in Mexican devotional tradition, transform the carving into a heartfelt prayer in three dimensions. Rascon’s signature style—geometric simplicity, soulful expression, and tactile warmth—radiates from every chisel mark.

Born of Northern New Mexico’s rich santero tradition, Rascon’s work bridges sacred and folk art, inviting both reverence and joy. His carvings, shaped from local cottonwood and painted by hand, honor the humility of saints and the spirit of the people who venerate them.

A rare and exquisite example of Rascon’s mature work, this piece embodies his mastery of form and feeling—an artwork that blesses as much as it delights. Signed and dated “Hector Rascon ’92” on the base.

Condition

Excellent condition with no damage or repairs. Paint remains vibrant, with only minor natural variations in tone consistent with hand-carved wood.

Dimensions

14 x 6 x 7 inches
Weight: 2 lbs
Please Note: Soup for Scale in Photo

Artist Biography: Héctor Rascon (1957–2017)

Héctor Rascon was one of Northern New Mexico’s most beloved folk artists, a carver whose humble materials and profound sensitivity brought spiritual presence to wood. Born in 1957, Rascon learned his craft under the guidance of his father-in-law, Ben Ortega, a renowned Taos santero whose influence can be traced in the rhythmic, prayerful simplicity of Rascon’s forms. Over time, Rascon developed a voice entirely his own—one that balanced reverence with a quiet humor and an abiding love for the natural world.

Working from his home in the Española Valley, Rascon carved from local cottonwood and aspen, shaping each piece by hand, often following the grain’s natural curves as if discovering the spirit hidden within. His subjects ranged from saints, angels, and holy figures to the animals of the high desert—coyotes, burros, and birds rendered with both dignity and playfulness. Many of his carvings bear painted accents and applied milagros, small metal charms traditionally offered in thanks or devotion, grounding his art firmly in Hispano-Catholic folk tradition.

Rascon described carving as his calling, saying, “I love to carve and give every piece my full attention.” That devotion is visible in the deep cuts of his tools, the stylized serenity of his faces, and the balance between simplicity and soul. His work has been exhibited in Southwestern galleries and collected by admirers of New Mexico folk art and contemporary santero craftsmanship alike.

Héctor Rascon passed away in 2017, leaving behind a legacy of heartfelt artistry that continues to speak of faith, humility, and the enduring beauty of handmade devotion. Each carving remains a quiet act of prayer—a bridge between earth, spirit, and tradition.