Child Jesus images in Mexico
The Niño Dios of Mexico is a tradition of venerating the Child Jesus in Mexico which has taken root from the time it was introduced in the 16th century and then synchronized with pre-Hispanic elements to form some unique traditions. Mexican Catholics have their own images of the Child Jesus, which is honored and celebrated during the Christmas season, especially on Christmas Eve and on Candlemas. One tradition unique to Mexico is to dress the image in new clothing each year for presentation at Mass on Candlemas. This dress can vary from representations of the saints, Aztec dress, football/soccer players and more. Also, there are Niño Dios images which are locally famous and honored year-round.
Niños Dios image dressed in Tzotzil garb
View of the nativity scene in front of the parish church of Santiago Zapotitlan in the Tláhuac borough of Mexico City.
Christmas tree and lights in the main plaza of the city of Chihuahua.
Niño Dios figure in more traditional christening garb
The Christ Child, also known as Divine Infant, Baby Jesus, Infant Jesus, the Divine Child, Child Jesus, the Holy Child, Divino Niño, and Santo Niño in Hispanic nations, refers to Jesus Christ from his nativity until age 12.
The famous statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague, given by Princess Polyxena of Lobkowicz to the Discalced Carmelites in 1628
Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, Ravenna, mosaic of the Mother of God enthroned with the Child, surrounded by four angels
Saint Anthony of Padua adoring the Christ Child. Oil on canvas, 1622, Antonio de Pereda.
Madonna with the Christ Child Writing, Pinturicchio c. 1500
