Heinrich Hofmann’s religious works resonate with the profound faith that guided his life and nourished his creativity. Hofmann (1824 – 1911) painted subjects from literature and mythology, but is best known for his paintings of the life of Christ. Deeply affected by his beloved mother’s death, Hofmann was inspired to paint his first large religious work, “The Burial of Christ.” Intensely devout, he diligently studied the Bible before painting any scene from Christ’s life. He strongly believed that unless someone was moved to their innermost soul while painting religious subjects, they were incapable of the task. Four of Hofmann’s most famous works are currently displayed in New York’s Riverside Church.

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