Christ blessing the children, has been a favorite subject with artists.
Hofmann, Plate 109, tells the story in his own charming way. How sweetly child-like is that offering of the little bouquet! He remembers that not only little children came; mothers brought their babies. (Luke 18:15.)
Plockhörst, Plate 110, is equally true to the account and to nature. Here a little child is asking to take her flowers to Jesus. Plockhörst loves symbolism. Sheep are present (Is. 40:11), and a little boy is about to offer Jesus a palm-branch in unconscious anticipation of his triumphal entry to Jerusalem. (Matt. 21:8, 9 and 15.)
Vogel, Plate 111, has introduced one or two children old enough to have some consciousness of a real need of such love and forgiveness as the Master offers to all. Their attitude is not that of naïve childhood.
Hofmann, Plate 112, has excelled himself in the portrayal of Christ and the rich young ruler, who asked how to obtain eternal life. (Matt. 19:16.) Jesus is saying; "If thou wouldest be perfect go sell what thou hast and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven." The decision of the young man is already made. He will presently go away sorrowful, and keep his great possessions. (Matt. 19:21, 22.)
