The traditional image of Jesus as a tall, fair-skinned man with long hair and light eyes doesn’t match the historical reality. The New Testament provides no physical description of Jesus, and when he was arrested, soldiers couldn’t distinguish him from his disciples.

Forensic anthropology, using science, reconstructed Jesus’ appearance. Scientists created X-ray images of Semite skulls from his region and concluded he likely had dark eyes, a beard, and short, curly hair. Historical records suggested he was around 5 ft. 1 in. tall, muscular, and weather-beaten due to carpentry work.

Dutch photographer Bas Uterwijk used advanced technology to create an image of Jesus that aligns with his historical context. He combined various facial references to refine Jesus’ ethnicity, hair, and beard, drawing from artistic portrayals and historical norms.