Mestizo style

The term "Mestizo style" in architecture refers to a decorative style that emerged in the late Baroque era in Spanish viceroyalties of New Spain and Peru. It is characterized by a two-dimensional quality in carved church facades and interiors, which differs from the more sculptural Baroque of metropolitan centers. This style is named "Mestizo" because it reflects the mixed ancestry of the populations and the inherited styles, blending European Baroque with indigenous traditions.12

Key features of the Mestizo style include:
* Two-dimensional relief: Carvings rely more on surface drilling than sculptural modeling, creating a screen-like effect.1
* Indigenous influence: This style is seen as more successful in reflecting local traditions than a direct copy of European Baroque, particularly in areas with high pre-Columbian civilizations and mixed populations.1
* Decorative excess: Similar to the broader Baroque, it features rich color and intricate details, often creating a sense of wonder or a transition to a marvelous realm.13

Examples of the Mestizo style can be found in the southern Peruvian highlands, Alto Perú (now Bolivia), southern and western Mexico, and Guatemala. In Mexico, particularly in Puebla and Oaxaca, this style is evident in painted and gilt stuccowork, as well as the use of brilliantly colored glazed tiles on exterior surfaces.1