"salvator Mundi" Oil On Copper, 17th Century

"Salvator Mundi"
oil on copper, 17th century

Christ "Salvator Mundi"
Period: 17th century (17th century)
Technique: Oil on copper (copperplate)
Dimensions: Support: 23 x 19 cm

With frame: 32.5 x 27 cm

Refined depiction of Christ as Salvator Mundi, a classic iconography depicting the Savior in a half-length, frontal view, holding the globe with a cross (symbol of spiritual and temporal dominion over the world) in his left hand; though not visible in the canonical blessing gesture due to his composed posture, he maintains an expression of solemn sacredness.

The painting is executed on a copper support, a technique particularly prized in the 17th century for its ability to enhance the brilliance of the pigments and allow for a meticulous, almost enamel-like application of paint. Christ’s face, framed by finely rendered brown hair and a short beard, is characterized by large, expressive eyes and a golden halo that radiates its own light, typical of the devotional style of the era.

Frame: The work is presented in a period ebonized frame with gilded profiles, which creates a strong chiaroscuro contrast (black-and-gold effect) typical of the Baroque style, enhancing the luminosity of the copper.

Condition: The copper surface shows signs of age and localized color loss (particularly in the lower left area and along the edges), which give the object an authentic patina of antiquity. The structure of the copper appears intact.