The Resurrection of Lazarus

While Europe had a long tradition of artists creating grand religious genre paintings, this work provides an example of how Tanner distinguished himself by modernizing the subject. Spectators are brought into the light via the miracle occurring before them. Tanner's painting s much more intimate with a]more humble representation of Jesus.  Tanner's version of the familiar theme had none of the shallow sentimentality so often seen in religious pictures on the Salon walls. His picture is a somber one.

In this biblically themed painting from the Gospel of John, Tanner depicts Jesus in a room with the dead Lazarus who lies on the ground, wrapped in white cloth with his head being cradled by a figure behind him. Jesus's arms are outstretched as he commands Lazarus to rise. A crowd in the background has gathered to mourn. 

this painting is an oil on canvas  and is in the Collection of Musée d'Orsay, Paris, France