Ben Stahl found most difficult this painting of the spectacular chariot race between Ben-Hur and Messal
Masterpieces for "Ben-Hur"
A noted artist interprets some of the moments
from a great classic a collection of four paintings
published exclusively for your enjoyment
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S Family Wttkly, December 20, 1959
Five years ago, when M-G-M decided to
remake the silent-film classic, "Ben
Hur," on a lavish scale, publicists felt it
would require "extraordinary" promo
tional illustration on the level of "art."
While studying the de luxe editions of
the Catholic Bible, published by Catholic
Press, they were struck by the magnifi
cent illustrations. The originals were by
noted American artist Ben Stahl, who re
searched in Palestine for the series.
To M-G-M, Stahl seemed the logical
choice to capture the drama of Gen. Lew
Wallace's epic novel. He combined the nec
essary Biblical background with artistic
talent For Stahl, the "Ben-Hur" illustra
tions are the latest in a series of successes.
He came into prominence as illustrator for
national periodicals, and his work now
hangs in museums.
Of all his assignments this was probably
the most challenging. His success is
reflected in these reproductions.
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Christ preaches His Sermon on the Mount. Each painting took Stahl approximately two weeks.
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Stahl captured the starkness of a tragic scene in the canvas depicting The Crucifixion of Christ.
1959 by locw'i. Incorporated
111, ' S:
Esther, the girl he loves. Although Stahl was guided by the film, he was given great freedom of expression.
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