Iceman Crucified #4 1958

Ralph Fasanella's *Iceman Crucified #4* is an expressionist painting rendering a scene of mid-20th century urban life. Fasanella, born to Italian immigrant parents, often depicted working-class communities, and his personal history profoundly shaped his artistic vision. Here, Fasanella elevates the figure of the iceman to a Christ-like figure, his arms outstretched on the cross of the icebox. This portrayal, far from traditional religious iconography, speaks to the artist’s deep empathy for the struggles and dignity of everyday laborers, many of whom were people of color. The iceman stands as a poignant symbol of sacrifice, bearing the weight of the community's needs. Fasanella captures the vibrant chaos of city life, yet the central figure invites us to reflect on issues of class, labor, and identity, and how these intersect within the urban fabric.