Infant Jesus Saviour of the World

The Infant Jesus, depicted here as the Saviour of the World, is shown standing with one of the two attributes by which he is characterized: the terrestrial globe (here without the cross that usually surmounts it) and a staff (missing here).
This model of the Saviour of the World, clothed rather than naked as is more common, may be particular to a Goan (?) workshop, identifiable by the handling of the clothing, which comprises a short tunic and cape, and abundant drapery. The tunic has a rounded neckline trimmed with lace, with a jewel in the middle. It is caught in at the waist and only just covers the knees; the material is arranged in folds that gather bustily in the middle. The same movement is evident in the cape more or less the same length, which is likewise trimmed with a pearl motif and band of tangent circles. The cape, which rests simply on his shoulders, allows the arms to perform the customary gestures. The figure’s hair is curly with rather sparse twisted ends simulating a halo that falls in a soft wave at the back. A slight grin animates the face.
A strange touch that emphasizes the Indian character of this image is the addition of anklets with little bells meant to announce the approach of the wearer. From head to foot this Infant Jesus is shown as a robust child whose lower limbs stand on an eight-sided footrest that serves as a base.