Henry Ossawa Tanner, Mary, ca. 1914, oil on canvas, 45 1⁄2 x 34 3⁄4 in. (115.5 x 88.2 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Dorothy L. McGuire, 1991.102
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Artwork Details
- Title
- Mary
- Artist
- Date
- ca. 1914
- Location
- Dimensions
- 45 1⁄2 x 34 3⁄4 in. (115.5 x 88.2 cm.)
- Credit Line
- Gift of Mrs. Dorothy L. McGuire
- Mediums
- Mediums Description
- oil on canvas
- Classifications
- Subjects
- Religion — New Testament — Mary
- Object Number
- 1991.102
Artwork Description
Henry Ossawa Tanner saw Mary, mother of Jesus, as a symbol of faith and fortitude. He painted many images of her and created this particular work during a difficult and trying time in his life. In 1914, the year his mother died, the outbreak of World War I forced his family to flee France for England. In this scene, Mary awaits the arrival of the angel who will tell her that she bears the Son of God. The glowing lamp, a symbol of God’s presence, adds mystery and suspense to the painting.
