The Jesuit missionary Francis Xavier was born near Pamplona in Spain in 1506. After meeting Ignatius Loyola in Paris, he became one of the founding members of the Society of Jesus, or Jesuits, in 1534. His life was spent in missionary work, making trips to India Japan, and China, where he died. He was canonized in 1622. Xavier's membership in the Jesuits is indicated by the Jesuit shield (IHS is the abbreviation of Jesus' name in Greek). The pilgrim's staff and gourd refer to his missionary journeys. The crucifix and lilies (symbol of purity) are also frequently seen in his representations. A painter of both portraits and religious subjects, Alzibar, along with Ibarra and Cabrera, founded the short-lived Mexico City Academy of 1753. He was later named associate director of painting at the newly established Fine Arts Academy of San Carlos.

Stephen was among the followers that the apostles ordained to care for the physical needs of the early church community, particularly the care of widows and orphans. Accused of blasphemy by the Jewish high priest, Stephen responded by confessing his faith in the context of Hebrew religious history. The people were so enraged that they stoned him to death. He became the first martyr of the Christian faith. As the first martyr, Stephen has a special place in Christian devotion. He is often represented by Roman Catholic artists, dressed in a dalmatic, the liturgical garment worn by deacons during the Mass. He is also frequently depicted with stones nearby or holding stones, the instrument of his death. A painter of both portraits and religious subjects, Alzibar, along with Ibarra and Cabrera, founded the short-lived Mexico City Academy of 1753. He was later named associate director of painting at the newly established Fine Arts Academy of San Carlos, a position that he held from 1781-1786.