Head of Christ

work by Sallman

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July 17, 2026

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Warner Sallman's Head of Christ (1940) became one of the most widely reproduced paintings of Jesus, distributed to U.S. soldiers during World War II. Sallman's work, influenced by Protestant fundamentalism, depicted Jesus as gentle, affirming, and comforting, reflecting a common understanding of Jesus in mid-20th-century America. This popular iconography follows a long tradition, including earlier devotional images and the "Sacred Heart of Jesus" pictures that gained popularity in Catholic Europe. The Ecce Homo theme, meaning "Behold the Man," also features depictions of Jesus wearing a crown of thorns and a purple robe, often emphasizing his suffering and compassion.

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Christology
Early 20th century to the present
…reproduced paintings of Jesus; his Head of Christ (1940) was distributed to U.S. soldiers during World War II. Sallman continued to paint Jesus in various settings, as in Christ in Gethsemane (1941), The Lord Is My Shepherd (1943), and Christ Our Pilot (1950).
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…reproduced paintings of Jesus; his Head of Christ (1940) was distributed to U.S. soldiers during World War II. Sallman continued to paint Jesus in various settings, as in Christ in Gethsemane (1941), The Lord Is My Shepherd (1943), and Christ Our Pilot (1950).
Read More