Jerusalem the Golden
Artist: Thomas Hovenden (American, 1840–1895)
Original Dimensions: 30" x 40"
Location: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
About Artwork: (1892–94) "After a trip abroad in 1890 and 1891, Hovenden spent a winter in Washington, D.C., where he painted this unusual picture. One of his last major works, it was included in the annual exhibition of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia in 1894–95. The woman seems to be an invalid. Next to her sits her husband or suitor. At the piano is another woman, presumably playing a hymn entitled "Jerusalem the Golden." This hymn, written in 1853, was popular among Protestant denominations during the late nineteenth century. It was meant to provide solace and comfort to the faithful in the face of death by offering salvation and promising peace in the afterlife." - (The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York)

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