Christ Child with Bird 1460 - 1470

Here is a woodcut depicting the Christ Child with Bird, crafted by an anonymous hand. Note the infant Jesus, identified by the halo, holding an apple, a symbol laden with meaning. It evokes the original sin, but also Christ’s role as redeemer, offering salvation. Beside him, a bird rests, perhaps a goldfinch, often associated with the Passion of Christ, prefiguring his sacrifice. We can see the motif of a child with a bird echoed in Renaissance paintings. The infant Christ's interaction with a bird carries an emotional resonance, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level and reflecting a tender moment of human connection. The motif taps into collective memory, linking to ancient symbols of sacrifice and redemption. These symbols reflect not a linear progression but a cyclical resurgence, evolving and adapting across different eras.