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

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: Michael Lantz
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: bronze
Mediums Description: bronze
Classifications: Sculpture
Medal
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.