Salvator Mundi 1597

Jan Saenredam’s engraving, made around 1600, depicts the Christ Child as Salvator Mundi, Savior of the World. The infant Christ raises his hand in benediction, while holding a globe surmounted by a cross, symbolizing his dominion over the earth. This motif—the child holding a globe—echoes classical representations of emperors holding orbs as symbols of power. Yet, its integration into Christian iconography transforms it, imbuing it with spiritual authority. We see this emblem across centuries, from Byzantine mosaics to Renaissance paintings, each iteration subtly shifting its emphasis. Consider how this symbol of earthly power is reborn as one of divine sovereignty. The emotional resonance of the Christ Child is palpable; it’s a potent expression of innocence and hope, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. This visual vocabulary transcends time, connecting us to the past and reminding us of the enduring power of images to shape our understanding of the world.