Basic Information

Historical Context

An oil painting depicting the Christ Child holding a sphere or globe, symbolizing his dominion over the world. This intimate devotional image combines naturalism with theological symbolism. [Inferred from Dürer Catalog] Visual Description The Christ Child, a plump and lively infant, sits holding a glass sphere or globe in his hands. He may be shown against a dark background or a simple interior. The painting is intimate in scale, intended for private devotion. Artistic Analysis This intimate devotional painting demonstrates Dürer's ability to combine theological symbolism with naturalistic observation. The Christ Child's infantile proportions are rendered with precision while the globe carries the traditional symbolism of Christ's universal dominion.