Artifact World Gallery
Get the iOS app

Roundel with Christ Healing the Blind Man by http://www.wikidata.org/.well-known/genid/a28119e089166cf09f6676528655fe23

http://www.wikidata.org/.well-known/genid/a28119e089166cf09f6676528655fe23 · 1522-01-01

This striking "Roundel with Christ Healing the Blind Man," created around 1522, is a beautiful example of devotional art from its period. Now housed in a private collection, this circular painting, or roundel, depicts a pivotal New Testament moment.

Observe Christ's gentle touch as he restores the blind man's sight. The man, kneeling humbly with his basket, represents a life about to be transformed. Look closely at the upper right to discover three small faces emerging from the clouds, signifying a divine presence witnessing the miracle.

Roundels like this were popular for private devotion, often integrating text directly into the artwork. The yellow border here, inscribed with Gothic script, would have enhanced the narrative, making the painting both an image and a story.

What other stories do you see in the details of this powerful scene?

Details

It depicts Christ performing a miracle, restoring a blind man's sight.
It depicts Christ performing a miracle, restoring a blind man's sight.
Three small faces in the sky suggest a divine presence.
Three small faces in the sky suggest a divine presence.
A yellow border with text provides more narrative context.
A yellow border with text provides more narrative context.
Transcript

This round painting, a 'roundel,' shows a Bible story. It depicts Christ performing a miracle, restoring a blind man's sight. His hand reaches out to touch the man's bandaged eyes. The kneeling man holds a basket, a symbol of his former life. Three small faces in the sky suggest a divine presence. A yellow border with text provides more narrative context.