“Child Jesus, Savior of the World.” Castilian school, second half of the 17th century.

“Child Jesus, Savior of the World.” Castilian school, second half of the 17th century.
Carved, gilded, and polychromed wood. Glass paste eyes.
It shows loss of polychromy, wear, cracks, and repainting.
Measurements: 46 × 24 × 21 cm.

The image depicts the Infant Jesus as Salvator Mundi, holding the golden orb in his left hand and extending his right hand in a gesture of blessing. The figure stands on a gilded cushion with tassels, which in turn rests on a polychrome base—a device that underscores his sovereign and ceremonial status.

The carving combines childlike anatomy with solemn gestures, characteristic of this devotional iconography that became widespread during the Baroque period. The rounded contours of the body, the golden hair, and the naturalism conveyed by the glass paste eyes intensify the presence of the image, which was likely intended for an altar, an altarpiece, or a setting for private devotion. The preservation of the orb—an essential attribute of the subject—clearly reveals its significance as a representation of Christ as ruler and redeemer of the world.