St Christopher Carrying the Infant Jesus

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "St Christopher Carrying the Infant Jesus", originally brought to life by the talented Edmond Lechevallier-Chevignard. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Edmond Lechevallier-Chevignard and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

"St Christopher Carrying the Infant Jesus" is a painting by French artist Edmond Lechevallier-Chevignard (1825–1902), known for his historical and genre paintings. The artwork depicts the popular Christian legend of Saint Christopher, who is revered as a martyr and saint by both the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches. According to the hagiographical narrative, Christopher was a Canaanite 5 cubits (7.5 feet or 2.3 meters) tall and with a fearsome face. While serving the king of Canaan, he took it upon himself to serve "the greatest king there was". He went to serve the king who was reputed to be the greatest, but one day he saw the king cross himself at the mention of the devil. On thus learning that the king feared the devil, he departed to look for the devil. He came across a band of marauders, one of whom declared himself to be the devil, so Christopher decided to serve him. But when he saw his new master avoid a wayside cross and found out that the devil feared Christ, he left him and inquired from people where to find Christ. He met a hermit who instructed him in the Christian faith. Christopher asked him how he could serve Christ. When the hermit suggested fasting and prayer, Christopher replied that he was unable to perform that service. The hermit then suggested that because of his size and strength Christopher could serve Christ by assisting people to cross a dangerous river, where they were perishing in the attempt. The hermit promised that this service would be pleasing to Christ.

After Christopher had performed this service for some time, a little child asked him to take him across the river. During the crossing, the river became swollen and the child seemed as heavy as lead, so much that Christopher could scarcely carry him and feared he would drown. But he made it across and, when he asked the child why he was so heavy, the child replied that he was Christ and that he was thus heavy due to bearing the weight of the world's sins. The child then vanished. Christopher later visited Lycia and there comforted the Christians who were being martyred. Brought before the local king, he refused to sacrifice to the pagan gods. The king tried to win him by riches and by sending two beautiful women to tempt him. Christopher converted the women to Christianity, as he had already converted thousands in the city. The king ordered him to be killed. Various attempts failed, but finally Christopher was beheaded.

Lechevallier-Chevignard's rendition of this scene captures the moment of the river crossing, with Saint Christopher depicted as a strong and towering figure, bearing the weight of the Christ Child on his shoulders. The painting is imbued with a sense of spiritual intensity and physical strain, reflecting the saint's determination and the surprising heaviness of the child. The artist's use of color and light emphasizes the miraculous nature of the event, with the divine aura of the child contrasting against the naturalistic rendering of Christopher's muscular form and the turbulent waters around them.

As a work of art, "St Christopher Carrying the Infant Jesus" is significant for its representation of religious iconography and its place within the broader context of 19th-century French painting. Lechevallier-Chevignard's attention to detail and his ability to convey narrative through visual elements make this painting a notable example of his artistic oeuvre. The painting also reflects the era's interest in religious and mythological subjects, interpreted through the lens of academic art traditions.

The exact date of creation, current location, and exhibition history of "St Christopher Carrying the Infant Jesus" are not specified in this introduction due to the lack of available information. However, the painting remains an important testament to Lechevallier-Chevignard's skill as a painter and his contribution to the genre of religious art.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.