Symbolic Interpretations
The sphere is a symbol that has long been prevalent in the annals of human history. Leonardo attempted to portray the message of The Christ using symbols, codes and cyphers. He did so for two reasons. First he had to be selective in the way he communicated esoteric knowledge, so as to not anger the religious authorities of the day. Second, he chose the signs that had a double meaning that would address the exoteric and esoteric message, for back in his time and Jesus’s time, symbols were very much a part of communication.
Traditionally, in Christian art, the orb represents the world, with Christ’s dominion over it being a common motif.
However, Leonardo’s rendition of the orb in “Salvator Mundi” is not opaque and earthly but transparent and ethereal, suggesting not merely a worldly realm but a more profound, cosmic domain. This transparency has led to interpretations that view the orb as a symbol of the celestial sphere, hinting at a Universe governed by Divine law and wisdom.
Scientific Curiosity
Leonardo’s depiction of the orb also reflects his deep interest in optics and light.
The orb does not distort the light or the robes behind it as one would expect from a solid glass sphere, leading to discussions about Leonardo’s understanding of refractive properties.
Some scholars argue that this anomaly could be intentional, showcasing Leonardo’s exploration of light and perspective, subjects he studied extensively. Others suggest it might indicate the orb represents a hollow, crystalline sphere rather than solid glass, pointing to Leonardo’s desire to blend scientific accuracy with symbolic depth.
Esoteric Theories
In esoteric terms, the orb transcends its traditional Christian symbolism, potentially representing the Philosopher’s Stone of alchemical traditions, a symbol of ultimate knowledge and enlightenment. This interpretation aligns with the Renaissance period’s revived interest in Hermeticism and alchemy, areas that Leonardo most certainly had been privy to through his connections and intellectual pursuits.
Geometric and Mathematical Speculations
Theories, such as those proposed by Robert Edward Grant, suggest the orb and its depiction encode mathematical and geometric knowledge, aligning with sacred geometry principles.
Grant’s analysis posits that specific angles and proportions in the painting correspond to significant mathematical constants and alignments, such as those observed in the Great Pyramid of Giza. This suggests Leonardo might have embedded deeper universal truths within the artwork, a testament to his belief in the harmony between art, science, and spirituality.
The Message of the Christ
The sphere has long been a symbol of perfection. It is completely uniform, and any point on the circumference is equidistant from the center. It’s unbroken loop repeats the nature of the Universe and Life’s repetitive renewal. It symbolizes wholeness, the cycles of existence, eternity and rebirth since there is no beginning and no end.
However, beyond its geometric simplicity, the circle carries substantial symbolic meaning across all cultures and spiritual traditions. The circle represents cosmic forces, spiritual completeness, and oneness. Very important aspects of Life that while known in Leonardo’s day, forbidden in daily conversation among the people.
The sphere stands for the whole whether material or spiritual, expressing the totality of being in all aspects. It denotes enlightenment and human perfection, and it suggests non-differentiation, a symbol of the Divine. Subject matter that Leonardo believed and understood and silently passed on and portrayed in his artwork.
