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Christian Host from Mystical Images of War

Natalia Goncharova French, born Russia
Publisher V. Kashin Russian
1914
Not on view
Goncharova portrays a row of protective angels guiding a faceless group of Russian soldiers into battle. The serenity of the scene frames the battle as much as a religious mission—a fight between good and evil—as a contemporary battle between nations. The avant-garde artist’s series Mystical Images of War comprises fourteen lithographs that combine traditional Russian symbols, such as icons, saints, and heraldic arms, with imagery derived from modern life, such as contemporary military uniforms and smokestacks. Like many European artists and intellectuals, Goncharova initially believed the war would usher in a new era guided by peace. Her prints have a spiritual dimension, and several are based on Biblical passages.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Christian Host from Mystical Images of War
  • Artist: Natalia Goncharova (French (born Russia), Nagaevo 1881–1962 Paris)
  • Printer: T-va I. N. Kushnerev i Ko.
  • Publisher: V. Kashin (Russian, active early 20th century)
  • Date: 1914
  • Medium: Lithograph
  • Dimensions: Image: 12 1/16 x 8 3/4 in. (30.6 x 22.2 cm)
    Sheet: 12 5/8 x 9 5/8 in. (32.1 x 24.4 cm)
  • Classification: Prints
  • Credit Line: Bequest of William S. Lieberman, 2005
  • Object Number: 2007.49.580
  • Rights and Reproduction: © 2025 Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York
  • Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints

More Artwork

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Weibliche Halbfigur (Half-Length Female Figure)
Natalia Goncharova
1922
Des Fleurs
Natalia Goncharova
La Cible
1919
Costume Design for Manka, for 'Bogatyri Ballet' (The Ballet of the Epic Heroes), premiered in New York, 1938, Natalia Goncharova French, born Russia, Gouache, watercolor, graphite
Costume Design for Manka, for 'Bogatyri Ballet' (The Ballet of the Epic Heroes), premiered in New York, 1938
Natalia Goncharova
[1938]
Costume Design for a Peasant Woman in 'Les Noces' (The Wedding), performed at the Théâtre Gaîte-Lyrîqué in Paris, 1923, Natalia Goncharova French, born Russia, Graphite and watercolor
Costume Design for a Peasant Woman in 'Les Noces' (The Wedding), performed at the Théâtre Gaîte-Lyrîqué in Paris, 1923
Natalia Goncharova
[1923]
Costume Design for the Ballet 'Coq d'Or', premiered at the Théâtre national de l’Opéra in Paris, 1924, Natalia Goncharova French, born Russia, Gouache
Costume Design for the Ballet 'Coq d'Or', premiered at the Théâtre national de l’Opéra in Paris, 1924
Natalia Goncharova
[1924]

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