7 Must-See Artworks That Glorify God
Step into the world of divine inspiration and artistic mastery, where the brush strokes of painters, the chisel marks of sculptors, and the devotion of creators converge to celebrate the essence of Christianity. Throughout history, artists have poured their souls into crafting masterpieces that transcend mere technique, becoming sacred symbols that reflect the magnificence of God.
From the intricate details of Renaissance paintings to the awe-inspiring grandeur of Baroque sculptures, these artworks serve as portals to a realm where faith and creativity intertwine. Each stroke of color, each curve of marble, bears testament to the enduring power of belief.
As you gaze upon these treasures, you're not just witnessing the talent of the artist but experiencing a profound connection to the divine. It's a journey that transcends time and space, inviting you to immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of Christian art.
We urge every Christian to seize the opportunity to behold these artworks firsthand, or at the very least, to acquaint themselves with their significance. For in each brushstroke and every chisel mark lies a testament to the everlasting glory of God, waiting to be discovered and cherished.
1. Sistine Chapel ceiling
Painting by Michelangelo - The Vatican
The Vatican is filled to the brim with masterpieces that even non-Christians universally admire. One of the most well-known artworks here is the ceiling fresco of the Sistine Chapel, painted by no other than Michelangelo. Considered a cornerstone of Renaissance art, the ceiling depicts Biblical scenes about man's need for God's salvation. Most recognizable of these scenes is "The Creation of Adam."
Want to learn more about beautiful churches around the world? Read our compilation here.
2. Adoration of the Shepherds
Painting by Gerrit van Honthurst - Wallraf-Richartz-Museum, Cologne, Germany
One of the most beautiful Nativity depictions, this painting features a central glow that is a trademark of van Honthorst, earning him the nickname "Gerard of the Nights." The Dutch Golden Age artist also painted another Nativity scene, "Adoration of the Child," where the infant Jesus is surrounded by happy little children with Mary and Joseph.
3. Hapag ng Pag-asa (Table of Hope)
Painting by Joey Velasco - University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
People around the world know of da Vinci's "The Last Supper," but Filipino painter Joey Velasco wanted to make a version that puts Christ closer to the reality of modern times. The result is this 2005 painting where Jesus breaks bread not with apostles but with 12 impoverished children. Though not as renowned as the Renaissance masterpiece, this version caused a stir due to its heavy symbolism and visual parable.
Before the artist died in 2010, he wrote a book about the real-life children who modeled for this painting and also helped them secure better futures through his foundation.
4. Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer)
Sculpture by Landowski, da Silva Costa, et al - Rio de Janiero, Brazil
This 30-meter-tall statue is such an iconic landmark that it has been named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Proposed by The Catholic Circle of Rio in 1920, it was originally intended as a response to the "godlessness" of society. The organization considered an early design where Christ held the globe in his hand, but they opted for the Christ-statue to have open arms, symbolizing peace and welcoming.
5. The Ecstasy of St. Teresa
Sculpture by Gian Lorenzo Bernini - Santa Maria della Vittoria, Rome, Italy
Bernini was the leading sculptor in 17th century Rome, and his masterful skill is evident to this day with this enigmatic marble sculpture. It depicts St. Teresa of Avila as she was visited by an angel who would pierce her heart with a golden spear. St. Teresa described this experience in her autobiography, saying it left her "all on fire with a great love of God." The episode was central in her life of spiritual suffering and mysticism.
6. The Crowning with Thorns
Painting by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio - Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Austria
Caravaggio ranks among the Italian masters of the 17th century, with a prolific array of lifelike yet utterly dramatic paintings. Many of his works are based on Biblical stories, including this undated masterpiece of Jesus being crowned with thorns. The artist may have been the perfect craftsman to paint this scene, as he was known to explicitly depict pain, cruelty, and suffering using his classical art style.
7. St. Michael Overcoming Satan
Sculpture by Scipione Tadolini - Boston College, Massachusetts, USA
The archangel Michael is one of the frequent subjects of Catholic art, as he is described as the commander of God's Army and the one who vanquished the devil from Paradise. In the Scriptures, Michael will also defeat the Antichrist for all eternity. Thus, the archangel is a symbol of the triumph of good over evil.
This grand marble depiction of the St. Michael was created by Scipione Tadolini, a member of the acclaimed Tadolini sculptor family from 17th- and 18th-century Italy. The piece was first commissioned by an American merchant but changed hands after he died. Eventually, a donor who wished to remain unnamed presented the statue to Boston College, where it now resides.
Which of these artworks would you like to visit soon? And which Christian artworks would you add to this list?
If you're looking for Biblical art that you can display in your own home, Christian Style has many affordable options for you! Visit our selection here to find the next wall art to grace your Christian home.