Christian art has existed for many centuries, with various artists expressing their visions of major events in the history of Christianity. Here is the list of the most famous Christian paintings that every appreciator of this art genre should know.

Which Famous Christian Paintings Enjoy the Highest Popularity?

Here is the list of the world’s best-known grand masters who have entered the hearts and minds of art connoisseurs.

#1 Leonardo da Vinci: The Last Supper

The Last Supper undoubtedly takes first place in all religious painting ratings, as it’s well-known in all corners of the Christian world. This monumental work created by Leonardo da Vinci in 1495-1498 is covered by many mysteries, and the artist’s intricate detailing of the apostles’ reaction to the announced betrayal has remained unrivaled thus far.

#2 Michelangelo: The Creation of Adam

The Creation of Adam is another world-known painting created c. 1511, featuring one of the most mysterious stories from the Old Testament – God’s creation of Adam, described in Genesis. The gesture of God’s finger reaching Adam’s finger has firmly entered the art culture as a symbol of giving life. The painting used to be heavily criticized for Adam’s naked body, but its place and role in Christian art is hardly disputed.

#3 Caravaggio: The Annunciation

The Annunciation is one of the best-known religious works by Caravaggio. Created between 1608 and 1610, it depicts Archangel Gabriel, who communicates God’s plan to the Virgin Mary in the privacy of her dark room.

#4 Raphael: Sistine Madonna

Raphael was a Renaissance artist with a well-recognized legacy in Christian painting. His Sistine Madonna painting created between 1512 and 1513 is globally known for its unique style and fine detail of religious portraiture. Virgin Mary carrying the infant Jesus in her hands is the central character of the painting, with St. Barbara depicted on the right and Pope Sixtus II on the left.

#5 Diego Velázquez: Christ Crucified

The Crucifixion of Jesus Christ is one of the most tragic events in Christian history that inspired many artworks. One of the widely known interpretations of that cruel action directed at the suppression of the Christian faith’s spread is the 1632 work by Diego Velázquez, titled Christ Crucified. Its minimalist composition and sharp contrast of Christ’s pale body with a black background create a dramatic, memorable effect.

There are many more famous Christian paintings across the globe, with the religious community enjoying a unique possibility to embrace eternal artworks in the world’s best museums. Welcome to explore the vibrant world of Christian art with 300Magazine.