José Manuel de la Cerda: A Maestro of Lacquer and Myth José Manuel de la Cerda (born Pátzcuaro, Mexico) stands as a singular figure in 18th-century Mexican art, celebrated primarily for his masterful wood carvings—particularly the ‘batea,’ a distinctive tray that embodies both European artistic sensibilities and Asian craftsmanship. His legacy extends beyond mere technique; it resides in his ability to infuse his creations with profound symbolism rooted in Greek mythology, notably the tale of Arachne and Athena, transforming simple objects into narratives rich with cultural significance.…