Saint Christopher Carrying the Infant Christ 1730s

This painting depicts a pivotal moment in the legend of Saint Christopher, the patron saint of travelers. Painted by Giovanni Battista Piazzetta in the 1730s, the painting shows the giant saint, Saint Christopher, carrying the infant Christ on his shoulder across a river, symbolizing his dedication to helping those in need. Piazzetta's signature use of tenebrism, the dramatic use of light and shadow, creates a sense of awe and reverence, highlighting the divine nature of Christ and the saint's selfless act. The painting, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, is a powerful testament to the enduring appeal of Saint Christopher's story.