Salvator Mundi

About this artwork

mark: ‘21’

Art Historical Context

Behold *Salvator Mundi* (Savior of the World), striking steel engraving by the artist Erin Corr, created sometime between 1815 and1862. Measuring 515 mm high by 405 mm wide, this print depicts the traditional Christian iconography of Christ as the divine redeemer, often shown blessing with one hand while holding a globe in the other—a symbol of his sovereignty. The subtle mark "21" likely indicates a catalog or edition number, hinting at its place within a series of devotional works. Steel engraving, the medium here, marked a technical leap in 19th-century printmaking. Introduced around 1820, it replaced fragile copper plates with durable steel, enabling finer lines, greater detail, and larger print runs ideal for disseminating religious imagery to a widening audience during the Romantic era's revival of sacred art. Corr's choice reflects this period's blend of piety and precision, making elaborate compositions accessible beyond elite patrons. This piece captures the enduring cultural reverence for Christ as humanity's savior, a motif rooted in Renaissance masterpieces but revitalized through industrial techniques. A testament to faith and craftsmanship, it invites visitors to ponder its intricate lines and timeless message.

About the Artist

Erin Corr · 1803–1862

Erin Corr (1803–1862) was an Irish engraver of exceptional skill and dedication, born in Brussels of Irish descent on an unknown date in 1803 and dying on August 10, 1862. His career exemplified the internationalism of 19th-century European art, as he trained in Belgium and France before establishing himself as a professor at the Antwerp Academy, where he influenced the next generation of engraver...