Infant Christ c. 17th century

Editor: This is Jacques Callot’s "Infant Christ," an etching. The tiny figure is surrounded by potent symbols. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The imagery resonates with the themes of innocence and power. Notice the Christ Child with the cross, crushing the serpent, yet also contemplative. How do you interpret the skull and the books? Editor: Perhaps the skull represents mortality, while the books signify wisdom and knowledge? Curator: Precisely! They speak to the duality of Christ's nature – divine wisdom confronting human mortality. This is a potent reminder of the human and divine. Editor: I never thought of it that way. Now I see the cultural weight packed into such a small piece. Curator: Indeed, symbols connect us to shared histories and beliefs.