Tabernacle 1935 - 1942

Josephine Romano made this watercolor painting of a tabernacle sometime in the 20th century. This image invites us to consider the vital role of art in shaping religious institutions. Romano’s tabernacle design blends traditional iconography with modern aesthetics, reflecting the evolving cultural landscape of American Catholicism. The cross and sacred heart motifs are recognizable symbols of the Catholic faith, but Romano's streamlined design suggests a break from the more elaborate tabernacles of the past. We might consider this design in the context of broader 20th-century movements to modernize the Church’s image. Was it a conscious effort to appeal to a younger generation? Did Romano see it as a way of bringing religious traditions into the present? To answer these questions, we might look to publications from the time period, exploring the intersection of art, religion, and social change in mid-century America. Understanding the historical context allows us to see how artistic expression is deeply intertwined with cultural values.