Ralph Pallen Coleman

Ralph Pallen Coleman was an American painter and illustrator, celebrated for his magazine illustrations during the Golden Age of Illustration and later for his religious paintings. Born in Philadelphia, he studied at the Philadelphia School of Industrial Art. Coleman’s career spanned from illustrating stories in magazines like The Saturday Evening Post to creating over 400 religious paintings and murals, deeply influencing the visual culture of Christianity in the mid-20th century.

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Despite his vivid illustrations of exotic locales and tropical paradises, Coleman never actually visited these locations, relying instead on National Geographic photos for reference. His transition to religious art halfway through his career marked a significant shift, dedicating his later years to depicting the life of Christ, even designing stained glass windows for Grace Presbyterian Church.

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