Rattner, Abraham (1895-1978), was an American painter who is best known for his religious works. His paintings are noted for their brilliant color, rich texture, and symbolism. They have been compared to stained-glass windows because of their glowing colors and bold black lines. Rattner often used words and inscriptions in his works. He painted many familiar Biblical themes, including the Crucifixion and the Last Judgment. He also painted less familiar Biblical subjects, such as the Valley of Dry Bones. He developed personal symbolic themes. For example, he painted a window cleaner removing dirt from a window. This is a symbol of the way God clears human vision to enable people to see the brilliance and beauty of the divine. Rattner was born on July 8, 1895, in Poughkeepsie, New York. He died on Feb. 14, 1978.
