Gabriel Cornelius von Max
Light, 1873
(Prague, Czechia, 1840 – Munich, Germany, 1915)
Gabriel von Max, the son of sculptors Josef Max and Anna Schuman, displayed remarkable artistic talent early in life, earning a place at the prestigious Prague Academy of Fine Arts at just 15. He continued his studies at the Munich Academy of Art, which attracted notable artists like James McNeill Whistler and Albert Bierstadt. Known for his fascination with spiritual themes, Max often collaborated with archaeologists to bring early Christian stories to life, drawing inspiration from discoveries such as the Roman catacombs.
Max's works earned him international acclaim, including gold medals from the World Fairs in Berlin, Munich, and Vienna. In recognition of his talent, he was appointed Professor of Historical Painting at the Munich Academy.
About this work
Light, 1873, showcased at the Vienna World’s Fair, captures a poignant moment in early Christian history. A blind beggar girl, identified as Cæcelia from Cardinal Nicholas Wiseman’s 1854 novel Fabiola, distributes oil lamps to Christians hiding from Roman persecution in the catacombs. To the left, a noblewoman secretly worships alongside lower-class believers, risking her life for her faith. Widely reproduced in the 19th and early 20th centuries, this work reflects the artist’s deep engagement with historical and spiritual narratives.
Dimensions
Unframed: 28 x 22.5 in.
Framed: 35.5 x 29.5 in.
Medium
Oil on canvas
