Jesus Im Grab (Jesus in the Grave)

Germanic people in both Europe and America revered religious themed paintings such as this depiction of Jesus Christ in the Tomb.  A number of similar examples were imported into Pennsylvania, especially, and were often displayed in pairs, including other scenes from the life of Christ such as his birth and death. Related examples have been found throughout Germany where the vogue for reverse glass paintings of this type continued throughout the nineteenth century. 

The image of Jesus Im Grab in Germanic dialect uses the symbolism of the crown of thorns, the cross, the dice, the sponge, and the spear which appear on the altar to remind the viewer of Christ’s Passion.  While the print source for this image remains to be identified, it was likely of European origin.  The bright coloration, costume, and dramatic scene are aspects of the composition which particularly appealed to the Germanic people.