RISTRA WREATH

Ristra Wreath

Oil Painting, 6" x 6"

Ristras are seen all over New Mexico at the entrances of houses, patios, and fences as a sign of welcome. They are said to bring good health and good luck! They come from a centuries old tradition of drying chiles in the Southwest. After the harvest, in late summer, the chiles are strung up to dry and used in the kitchen during the rest of the year. I've had this little wreath, made from the smaller Pequin chiles, for many months and this painting was my way of welcoming you to my blog.