The young Christ lectures the doctors of the Temple. Engraving by E. Rouargue.

Bible. N.T. Luke 2.43-49. The scholar in front of Christ is shown in an aspect of agitated finger-counting. "Finger-counting was traditional in theological disputes and illustrates the scholastic method of argumentation" (L. Réau, Iconographie de l'art chrétien, Paris 1957, vol. 2, p. 290)

Joseph and Mary can be seen in the right-hand portal; Mary is chastising the young Jesus for running away (Luke 2.48). Joseph places his hand on the boy's back

Paris : Pilon

1 print : line engraving ; image 18.5 x 14 cm

Jésus au milieu des docteurs. Rouargue sc.

Wellcome Collection 22429i