Maria Thereza Alves Confronts Colonial Tributes in Naples Archives at Martins&Montero

Martins&Montero showcases "An Accounting," a solo exhibition featuring artist Maria Thereza Alves, which investigates the colonial records of Naples to reveal the systematic plundering of wealth from conquered territories. The focus is on ledgers and documents detailing over four centuries of tributes owed to a Neapolitan family, including unpaid labor from ranches, haciendas, and mines, alongside resources such as timber, stone, lime, turquoise, amber, crystal, maize, cacao, cotton, rubber, and gold. Tens of thousands were compelled to pay these tributes, which were ultimately aggregated into sums for the family, who continually sought additional land, labor, and tribute. It wasn't until the early 1900s, amid declining revenues, that a family member questioned the land's nature and its inhabitants. Alves emphasizes Xico, located in the State of Mexico, as one of the regions affected by centuries of tribute. The exhibition raises a critical question: "How does one begin a dialogue in the face of this centuries-long silence?" Through her work, Alves addresses the erasure of colonial histories and the lasting effects of economic exploitation, compelling audiences to confront the overlooked stories within archival materials.