Saint Christopher Carrying the Christ Child

Hieronymus Bosch

1490s - 1500s

Saint Christopher Carrying the Christ Child by Hieronymus Bosch, 1490s - 1500s

Wading through a murky river, a giant, bearded Saint Christopher struggles under the surprisingly heavy weight of the Christ Child perched on his shoulders. According to legend, the boy grew heavier because he was actually carrying the weight of the world. However, Bosch couldn't resist adding his signature bizarre flair to the background scenery. Look closely at the strange tree on the right, complete with a giant jug, a ladder, and a bird's nest, proving that even in a traditional religious scene, this Dutch master's imagination was wonderfully weird and full of hidden details.

Technique
Oil on wood panel
Material
Wood panel

Location: Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, Rotterdam

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