The Passion of Sacco and Vanzetti 1932

Ben Shahn created "The Passion of Sacco and Vanzetti" using egg tempera, a traditional painting method dating back to antiquity. Unlike the smooth finish of oil paint, egg tempera dries quickly, lending itself to sharp lines and a somewhat chalky texture. Shahn has applied this medium to a scene laden with social significance. The painting commemorates Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti, Italian immigrant anarchists controversially executed in 1927. The visible brushstrokes and unblended colors give the work a raw, almost protest-poster-like feel. This aesthetic choice aligns with the legacy of the two men, emphasizing their status as working-class martyrs in the face of perceived injustice. By employing tempera, Shahn bridges the gap between the tradition of fine art and the immediacy of social commentary, reminding us of the enduring power of materials and making to convey profound meaning.