In both Russian and Mexican traditions, the faithful create sacred spaces in households for private devotion. The objects placed there depend on personal tastes and devotions and are treated with respect by bowing or making the sign of the cross towards them and placing offerings. Altars became important fixtures in the home, particularly during the nineteenth century when both countries experienced political and religious upheaval.

The social, political, and religious situation of nineteenth-century Mexico contributed to the magnitude of retablo production in New Spain and independent Mexico. New legislation that sought to separate church and state paved the way for an increasingly private form of devotion. In moments of distress, the faithful gather around the altar praying for divine intercession, miracles, and blessings. On home altars, the retablo santos worked as powerful friends and protectors of their households. They were usually located in the main living areas, hanging on bedroom walls, or placed on a table covered with a linen cloth. Altars often feature retablos, flowers, novenas, images, and prayer cards arranged in a deliberate and highly personal way, inspiring the pious to live a life of spiritual virtue and sanctity.

Russia experienced a period of political and social instability during the expansionistic conflicts with many European and East Asian countries. As a result of this territorial expansion, the Russian Empire encompassed vast populations from the four major religions: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism. The Orthodox Church became state-run, and many scholars cite the relationship between church and state in the 19th century as one of the major causes of the 1917 revolution. The icon corner always served as the spiritual heart of the home church, bringing families together in prayer, even during times of political unrest.

The Orthodox icon corner is typically constructed using a set of east-facing shelves adorned with icons of Christ, the Mother of God, and other important saints. It is meant to be aesthetically pleasing, inviting prayer and contemplation. A cross, prayer book, Bible, candle, or lampada (lantern) may also be placed in the corner. The icons may be covered by a linen cloth to symbolically honor and protect them.