2009-04
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/31/2009
(also produced the first chromo-litho plates for the first fully illustrated book by that process in the U.S). This 4 page (6 x 7) printed circular/leaflet was his explanation and defense of a remarkable portrait he painted in 1906 on commission from a Protestant church in Baltimore that created a painful controversy and agitation at the time. Boldly headlined "JESUS AT PRAYER / MAX ROSENTHAL ARTIST / PHILA. / COMMENT BY THE ARTIST" obviously issued c. 1906 contemporary to painting's unveiling and the immediate controversy, it opens: "In presenting my picture 'Jesus at prayer' to the public for judgment, it may be proper for me to give some explanation of its conception…" he clarifies his concepts, his devotion to history and the "earnest religious sentiment which I cherish" versus those of other artists of various countries who had misrepresented their portrayals of Jesus, justifying his portrayal of Jesus as a man of force, dignity and decision…not afraid to express his convictions…and not a weak character" (etc.)…"I tried to illustrate historically the descent of Jesus from the tribe of Judah. The emblems of that tribe are indicated as you will find them set forth in Genesis…" Exc.+; slightest minor aging. With fine bio sketches of Rosenthal from both Jewish and American works, one which discusses this particular painting and how it was rejected by the Baltimore church "…on account of the phylacteries on Jesus' forehead and right arm. A Catholic church offered a substantial sum for the work if the artist would paint in a halo, which he refused to do." The full details of the incident would make an interesting story for a Judaic historian
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