SAINT CHRISTOPHER WITH THE INFANT JESUS - The Embden Collection Northern Germany/The Netherlands, ca.1580. Boxwood, finely carved in the round. The saint is depicted wearing a turban, a buttoned and belted doublet, and a long cloak, leaning on a large branch as a staff, and standing in a body of water. The Christ Child with the globe is crouching on his shoulders, and the two are making eye contact. On an octagonal stepped base with two blank coat-of-arms cartouches on the front. H 38 cm. One hand of Saint Christopher with a break, the Christ Child's right arm is missing. Cracks and losses. Provenance: The Arlette and Antony Embden Collection, France. The object on offer is a fine and masterful carving. According to legend, Christopher, in his desire to serve Christ, devoted his life to carrying travelers across a river. One night, he carried a child on his shoulders who grew heavier and heavier. He realized that this child was Christ himself. With Christ, Christopher figuratively carries the burden of the world. He is considered the patron saint of travelers and is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers. * The full tax is charged on this item marked *, i.e. VAT is charged on the sum will be refunded to Purchasers providing a validly stamped export declaration.