Blessed Martin De Porres Appraisal

Devotional Card of Blessed Martin de Porres

This item is a small, rectangular devotional card, likely printed on cardstock or heavy paper, featuring a black and white image of a religious figure. The dimensions appear to be consistent with a standard collectible religious card, possibly around 3.5 to 5 inches in height and 2 to 3 inches in width, though exact measurements are not provided. The image depicts a male figure, presumed to be a saint or blessed, in what appears to be a monk's habit, holding a crucifix in his hands. The style of the image suggests a sculpted work, possibly a statue, rather than a drawing or painting, rendered in a grayscale photographic print. The figure is depicted with solemnity, looking downwards at the crucifix. Below the image, the text "BEATO MARTIN DE PORRES, O. P." is clearly printed, identifying the figure as Blessed Martin de Porres, O.P. (Order of Preachers, i.e., Dominican). In the lower right corner, there is a small, faint circular emblem or logo, which could be a publisher's mark or a religious order's insignia, though it is not distinctly legible. The card exhibits light signs of age, consistent with being found inside a book, which often protects such items from significant sun exposure or handling wear. The corners appear mostly intact, with minor softening, and there are no immediately apparent creases, tears, or major discolorations. The print quality seems good for its apparent age, with clear contrast between the dark figure and background and the white border. The overall condition suggests careful handling and storage. Given the identification of "Beato" (Blessed) rather than "Santo" (Saint), this card likely predates his canonization in 1962, suggesting an estimated age from the mid-20th century or earlier. The craftsmanship is typical of mass-produced religious ephemera of that period.