Painted Wooden Crucifix c. 1939

Majel G. Claflin's "Painted Wooden Crucifix" (c. 1939) is a watercolor painting on paper depicting a wooden crucifix with a painted figure of Jesus Christ. The artist, who was known for her religious art, has captured the suffering and sacrifice of Christ through a detailed and emotional depiction of his physical torment. The inscription “I.N.R.I” above Christ’s head, which stands for “Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum” (Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews), reinforces the religious theme. The artwork is a poignant reminder of the central belief of Christianity.