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Crucifixion, by Giovanni Stradano (1523–1605)

Giovanni Stradano, a Flemish artist who moved to Florence to study Italian art and culture, followed the style of Mannerism taught by Giorgio Vasari. The renovation of the Santissima Annunziata, which included Stradano’s altarpiece Crucifixion (1569), was part of a citywide project to modernize chapels and reemphasize the teaching of biblical stories through art. In this painting, Jesus turns away from the criminal on his left, who looks into the darkness in defeat and despair.

Angels Speaking Hebrew, by Mark Podwal

Mark Podwal is known for his drawings on the New York Times op-ed page, as well as his illustrations for books inspired by Jewish legend, history, and tradition. In Angels Speak Hebrew, Hebrew letterforms and images have merged and are being carried off by angels. Podwal believes this art can help us “visualize and encourage prayer.” (From Reimagined: 45 Years of Jewish Art, by Mark Podwal © 2016, published by Glitterati Incorporated)

The Tax Collector and the Pharisee, by Raymond Quinsac Monvoisin

Raymond Quinsac Monvoisin’s 1865 wood engraving of the parable of the tax collector and the Pharisee (after a sketch by Gustave Doré) arranges the composition as if the viewer is on the altar looking toward the two men. The viewer is in a position of judgment. We see Jesus and his disciples watching the event from just outside the door. The Pharisee stands erect with his hands clasped in front of him. The tax collector bows down and kneels on his mat with arms wide, offering himself to God. His body language reflects his abject humility before God.