In this adaptation from late Byzantine art, we encounter Christ as a living icon, his left hand resting on the fictive ledge of the frame. David focused on the humanity of Christ, and the freshness of observation evident in his physiognomy and in the delicate articulation of the hands is based on studies from life.Related in its size and meticulous rendering to manuscript illumination, this "mini-icon" was intended to be hand-held as an aid to private devotion.This object is owned jointly by The Cloisters and the Department of European Paintings. See more detailed information regarding this painting on the European Paintings section of the web site.
