Longinus Piercing the Side of Christ
1840s
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Accession Number
1945-200-477
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
"Longinus Piercing the of Christ," a print from the 1840s housed in the Smithsonian American Art Museum, captures a dramatic moment from the Crucifixion narrative in Christian tradition. The unknown artist depicts the Roman centurion Longinus, traditionally identified as the soldier who pierced' side with a lance to confirm his death, as recounted in the Gospel of John. This scene, rich in symbolism, represents themes of redemption and divine mercy—legend holds that Long was healed of blindness by Christ's blood, leading to his conversion. Created during the mid-19th century, a period of ferv...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...