Christus als Salvator Mundi 1623

Lucas Kilian created this engraving, Christus als Salvator Mundi, in Germany sometime between 1594 and 1637. Kilian’s print portrays Christ as the “Savior of the World,” a messianic figure popular during the Counter-Reformation. The visual codes in the print reflect the cultural politics of the period. Christ is framed by an arch and classical columns, suggesting both earthly strength and divine approval. His halo merges into the architectural frame, signaling the merging of church and state. In his left hand, Christ holds an orb surmounted by a cross, a symbol of worldly power. His raised right hand may refer to “dextera domini,” the right hand of God, a sign of divine judgement. Prints like these served an important social function in early modern Europe as they reinforced religious doctrine. These images circulated widely and shaped the beliefs of the time. To learn more, look into how the Catholic Church used imagery in their battle against Protestantism.