17th-century South American School Close To Zurbaran, 'tefaf' Quality

Country: appears to originate from New Mexico or Peru. Period: 1650-1670. Artist: one can only think of one of the great South American painters who saw Zurbarán's work and his way of painting colorful costumes and angels' heads in a style that borders on the supernatural, and was inspired by it, approaching it like a student elevated by his Master. It is likely that in his early youth he trained in Spain in a Jesuit workshop before leaving for the Americas. Subject: It depicts a delicate guardian angel, wearing sandals, bearing the inscription "Angelus Custos" (Guardian Angel). There is also a Latin text relating to the work, explaining the prayer according to the Ignatian tradition. This text translates as follows: "The manner in which the guardian angel appeared to the Virgin in the presence of the one who received her, in connection with the latter's revelation concerning spiritual exercises." Father Ludovicus a Ponte speaks of it in the Life of Father Balthazar Alvarez, chapter 43. The decoration of fine pearls on his garment symbolizes original purity. Could you provide me with more information about the artist of this work? It is an oil painting on canvas, mounted on an antique stretcher, in its original condition, measuring 44 cm x 74 cm excluding the frame. This work was dedicated to prayer and contemplation. Support: Oil on canvas, old canvas backing that hasn't overwhelmed the artwork (I've left it as is; I'm not altering it—it will be up to the future buyer to decide). Frame: In keeping with the original style, possibly period or 19th century, imitating that era (note a crack on the top rail and signs of wear). *Note that if you use AI, you will automatically come across great South American painters where the quality of the execution is undeniable, but where the costumes are truly atypical in their originality and color. This work would be perfectly at home displayed at TEFAF, and I say this with humility. Provenance: Formerly in the collection of a Jesuit from Tournai.