Christ Child c. 1640

These two sculptures of the Christ Child are attributed to Felipe de Ribas, a 17th-century Spanish artist, and are made from painted and gilded wood. During this era, Spain's religious fervor and colonial expansion deeply influenced its art. Looking at these figures, we see more than simple religious icons. The artist infuses a sense of humanity into the divine, making them relatable. One of the sculptures stands on the heads of people, which are believed to be damned souls. The other stands on what appears to be a rock. Consider how the artist employs the vulnerability of childhood to convey complex theological ideas. The figures are positioned on a base, elevating the Christ Child above the viewer. This is powerful, as it implies the tension between the earthly and the divine. These sculptures provide insight into the cultural values of 17th-century Spain, and the emotional resonance of faith.