Oertel, Johannes Adam Simon, 1823-1909

Johannes Adam Simon Oertel, artist and Episcopal clergyman, was born in Bavaria and came to the United States in 1848. In 1851, he married Julia Adelaide Torrey (d. 1907), with whom he had four children. His works include decorations for the ceiling of the House of Representatives in the Capitol in Washington, D.C.; "Rock of Ages," which was widely circulated in reproduction; and many religious paintings and wood carvings for churches. Oertel served as rector in Lenoir and Morganton, N.C.; Glen Cove, N.Y.; and Emmorton, Md.; and briefly operated a sawmill in Orange Springs, Fla. From 1895 to 1902, he painted a series of large canvases collectively called "Redemption," which he considered his highest achievement.

From the description of Johannes Adam Simon Oertel papers, 1868-1883. WorldCat record id: 25465746

...