San Pasqual The Kitchen Saint

“SAN PASQUAL, THE KITCHEN SAINT”, Original Acrylic Painting/Icon on wood, frame is attached and is recycled. San Pasqual, the Mystic Kitchen Saint has been one of the most often requested Saints here in Santa Fe, whether from locals or tourists looking to take a bit of our beautiful culture back home. San Pasqual, or variously San Pascual, San Paschal, et al is depicted in the kitchen often floating on a cloud. He is a precious image of how we revere our food and kitchens and the families and friends that surround us for our meals. Most think of him as a Catholic Saint, but alas, no, he is not among those listed on Catholic.org. I was surprised to find out that he is a Folk Saint rather than one canonized by the Catholic Church. He was born Paschal Baylon on May 24th, 1540 in Spain. He became a Franciscan Friar at 24 and prepared the meals for his brothers as well as keeping the kitchen clean. He prayed and meditated while he prepared food and was a Mystic over the pot of beans or vegetable soup. His Feast Day in May 17th. San Pasqual transcended a daily task and infused his dishes with charity, self-sacrifice and kindness. I am sure all that he cooked was delicious and beautiful. In my Icon of this wonderful Folk Saint, the Halo that surrounds his head is filled with some of the wonderful vegetables he no doubt used in his Kitchen. Corn, Tomato, Chili Pepper, Peas, and Onion. He holds a golden spoon as he stands outside in this beautiful New Mexico blue sky. I think is a a flavorful and colorful artwork, that would liven and grace any kitchen, especially for those who are chefs or just savor cooking; for who does not like a kitchen stocked with good food, that become great meals with just that extra bit of Mystical love added for Divine Flavor.

Copyright Christina Miller 2017, all rights remain with the artist.