Albrecht Dürer (German, Nuremberg 1471–1528 Nuremberg), Salvator Mundi, ca. 1505. Oil on linden, 22 7/8 x 18 1/2in. (58.1 x 47cm). The Friedsam Collection, Bequest of Michael Friedsam, 1931; 32.100.64 © 2000–2016 The Metropolitan Museum of Art. 

Following its sale by the artist's sister to a private collector, this great work was described as "the Salvator, not quite finished by Albrecht Dürer." We can see the meticulously worked underdrawing in many areas, including in the unfinished globe or orb (the appearance of some areas of the surface is due to old restorations). Dürer may have left the panel incomplete when, in 1505, he fled Nuremberg for Venice at the outbreak of plague, but it is not clear why he did not complete it upon his return. It is possible that he retained it as a showpiece in his studio to impress students and clients with his skill.

This work is exhibited in the “Unfinished: Thoughts Left Invisible” exhibition, on view through September 4th, 2016. #MetBreuer