“Blessed Are the Meek for They Shall Inherit the Earth”

Michael Lantz, "Blessed Are the Meek for They Shall Inherit the Earth", 1948, bronze, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle, 1972.167.36
Copied Michael Lantz, "Blessed Are the Meek for They Shall Inherit the Earth", 1948, bronze, 2 7⁄8 in. (7.3 cm) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle, 1972.167.36

Artwork Details

Title
“Blessed Are the Meek for They Shall Inherit the Earth”
Artist
Commissioner
Society of Medallic Arts
Founder
Medallic Art Company
Date
1948
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
2 7⁄8 in. (7.3 cm) diam.
Credit Line
Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Subjects
  • Figure group — male
  • Figure female — nude
  • Animal — horse
  • Religion — New Testament — Christ
  • Figure female — full length
  • Literature — Bible
Object Number
1972.167.36
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1972.167.36

Artwork Description

Research has not revealed the purpose behind this medal designed by Michael Lantz. The inscription comes from the Sermon on the Mount, recorded in the New Testament, and it is possible that the medal was commissioned in response to the tragedy of the Second World War.