Head of Christ by Warner Sallman Value Guide

Warner Sallman's 'Head of Christ' is a definitive piece of 20th-century religious art, gaining massive popularity after its 1940 debut when it was distributed to American soldiers during WWII. This iconic lithograph has been reproduced over a billion times, making original mid-century framed versions highly sought after by collectors of Americana and devotional art.

What affects the value of Head of Christ by Warner Sallman?

• Condition of the lithograph, specifically looking for any fading, water damage, or foxing on the paper.
• The presence and condition of the original 1940s wooden frame and glass.
• The specific size of the print, as larger formats or unique institutional versions can command higher prices.
• Provenance or labels on the back of the frame indicating early distribution by Kriebel & Bates.

How to Identify Head of Christ by Warner Sallman?

• Look for the distinctive 'Sallman' signature, typically located in the lower corner of the image.
• Examine the lithograph for a copyright date, often marked as 1940 or 1941 by Kriebel & Bates.
• Check for period-correct framing materials, such as original mid-century wood and aged glass typical of the 1940s.
• Verify the printing quality; authentic lithographs from this era feature fine detail and specific color saturation not found in modern digital prints.

History of Head of Christ by Warner Sallman

Warner Sallman's 'Head of Christ' is one of the most widely reproduced religious images in history. Originally sketched in 1924 and painted in 1940, it gained immense popularity during World War II, when copies were distributed to American soldiers. Its widespread appeal continued throughout the 20th century, becoming a ubiquitous symbol in Christian homes and institutions globally. The image has been reproduced over a billion times.