The Infant Jesus of Prague (Czech: Pražské Jezulátko) is a Roman Catholic wax-coated wooden statue of child Jesus holding a globus cruciger, with a wooden base and a silver erector. It dates back to the 16th century (1556) and is located in the Carmelite Church of Our Lady Victorious in Malá Strana.
Pious legends state that the statue once belonged to Saint Teresa of Avila, and, although its exact origin is not known, it was donated to the Carmelite friars in 1628 by Polyxena, first Princess Lobkowicz.
The right hand of the statue is raised in a gesture of blessing, with two fingers raised symbolizing the two natures of Jesus Christ and the three folded fingers represent the Holy Trinity. The left hand holds a gold-plated orb surmounted by a cross, signifying sovereignty.
It became legendary for its miraculous help during plague, plundering etc and claims of blessings, favors and miraculous healings have been made by many who petitioned before the Infant Jesus.
The statue has merited Papal recognition, as it has been approved for devotion and granted canonical coronation from four different Popes over the years.
Pious legends state that the statue once belonged to Saint Teresa of Avila, and, although its exact origin is not known, it was donated to the Carmelite friars in 1628 by Polyxena, first Princess Lobkowicz.
The right hand of the statue is raised in a gesture of blessing, with two fingers raised symbolizing the two natures of Jesus Christ and the three folded fingers represent the Holy Trinity. The left hand holds a gold-plated orb surmounted by a cross, signifying sovereignty.
It became legendary for its miraculous help during plague, plundering etc and claims of blessings, favors and miraculous healings have been made by many who petitioned before the Infant Jesus.
The statue has merited Papal recognition, as it has been approved for devotion and granted canonical coronation from four different Popes over the years.
Infant Jesus of Prague