Colonial school. Mexico. 18th century. "Apparition of Our Lady of the Pillar to the Apostle Saint James the Greater and some of his disciples in Caesaragusta" Oil on canvas. Relined. 118 x 98 cm. According to Catholic tradition, it is said that in the year 40, the Virgin Mary appeared to James in Zaragoza, to encourage him in his preaching throughout Hispania. James, who was with his disciples by the Ebro river, "heard voices of angels singing Ave, María, gratia plena and saw the Virgin Mother of Christ appear, standing on a marble pillar". The Blessed Virgin, who was still alive at the time, asked the Apostle to build a church there, with the altar around the pillar where she was standing, and promised that "this place will remain until the end of time so that the virtue of God will work wonders and marvels through my intercession with those who implore my support with their needs."