Vintage Antique 17" Chalkware Chalk Ware Infant Jesus Prague Statue Velvet Robe

Description

View Vintage Antique 17" Chalkware Chalk Ware Infant Jesus Prague Statue Velvet Robe with current marketplace pricing, condition, product images and item details. The statue’s chalkware body features The Infant Jesus of Prague is more than just a depiction of Christ as a child—He is shown asDivine King, blessing the world with one hand while holding the. In His left hand, the Infant Jesus of Prague holds aglobus cruciger —a small orb topped with a cross. This impressive 17-inch chalkware statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague carries the classic, unmistakable presence that has inspired devotion for centuries. The statue still radiates the serene majesty and kingly innocence that make this beloved figure a cornerstone of Christian devotional art. A Figure Rooted in Deep Tradition The Infant Jesus of Prague is more than just a depiction of Christ as a child—He is shown as Divine King , blessing the world with one hand while holding the globus cruciger , the orb representing His sovereignty over all creation. This combination of childhood tenderness and royal authority is exactly why the image became so iconic in Europe, especially from the 17th century onward. Chalkware statues like this one became especially popular in the 1930s–1940s , when devotional artisans produced expressive versions for home altars, parish halls, and religious shops. This statue’s hand-painted face, softly modeled hair, and detailed garments are classic hallmarks of that era. The Garments — Rich, Regal, and Hand-Finished The attire on this piece is truly striking and one of its greatest assets: Velvet Royal Mantle The deep crimson velvet robe , lined in radiant gold satin, flows dramatically from the shoulders all the way to the base. It is trimmed in ornate metallic braid that catches the light beautifully. The weight, drape, and craftsmanship give the figure real presence, making it visually powerful from across a room. Hand-Painted Satin Gown Beneath the mantle is a white satin gown , accented with hand-painted floral flourishes—soft pink petals and delicate green stems. This sort of painted embellishment was typically done in small workshops rather than factories, giving each statue its own personality. The gown is finished with gold trim along the base and delicate lacework at the sleeves and neckline. Time has gently aged the lace, giving it that soft, antique translucence only vintage devotional textiles achieve. Even where the fabric has frayed or worn through, the artistry of the clothing remains evident—this was a piece made with care, intended to honor a sacred subject. Chalkware Figure Details The statue’s chalkware body features: A gentle, expressive face with blue eyes , a calm mouth, and hand-painted eyebrows The traditional two-finger blessing gesture The globus cruciger in the left hand—painted in turquoise and gold The large crown, molded in a classic Baroque style, with a cross finial above The surfaces show typical mid-century chalkware aging: small chips, some rub wear, and loss to the fingertips and orb area. Nothing unexpected for a devotional piece that has likely seen decades of home display. Condition Notes A hole in the front of the white gown (shown in photos) Wear and small chips to fingers and orb... little loss of chalk, mostly just loss of paint. Light staining on lower gown area All original garments present Despite these age marks, the statue still displays beautifully , and the robe remains absolutely stunning—deep, vibrant, and richly textured. What He’s Holding — and Its Symbolism In His left hand, the Infant Jesus of Prague holds a globus cruciger —a small orb topped with a cross. This symbol has been used in Christian art for more than a thousand years to represent Christ’s sovereignty over the entire world . Breakdown of the Symbol The Orb (Globus): Represents the Earth itself—humanity, creation, and the physical world. It is the sphere over which kings traditionally claimed dominion. The Cross: Positioned above the orb to show that Christ’s authority is not earthly, but divine. The cross dominating the sphere signifies that salvation, mercy, and divine order extend across all nations and peoples. Held in the Child’s Hand: The infant form of Jesus holding the orb communicates a powerful theological idea: Even as a child, He is the true King—gentle, innocent, yet possessing ultimate authority. This combination of tenderness and kingship is one of the defining characteristics of the Infant Jesus of Prague and is precisely why the image became beloved in Europe. The statue shows not just a holy child, but a divine ruler , offering blessing with one hand and holding the world—with grace rather than force—in the other. Why Collectors Love This Symbol It’s one of the most recognizable Christian royal emblems It pairs beautifully with the blessing hand, completing the message: Christ rules, Christ blesses, Christ protects It anchors the statue in centuries of Christian iconography, giving even a mid-century chalkware example a deep historical lineage. Condition: Used. Category: Collectibles › Religion & Spirituality › Christianity › Statues & Figures.

Religion

Christianity

Country of Origin

Italy

Handmade

Yes

Figure

Jesus