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Tree of Light

Tree of Light by Hannah Cohoon

Tree of Light was created in 1845, by Hannah Cohoon.

This symmetrical design is an inspirational drawing transmitted in a vision to a member of the Shaker community at Hancock, Mass. The Shakers were a celibate religious order which established a number of communities in the United States in the late 18th and first half of the 19th century. During and following the Shaker revival of 1840, numerous visions of Heaven were received by living members of the community from departed friends. The "tree of light" or "blazing tree" is described by the Shaker artist in graphic terms: "The bright silver color'd blaze streaming from the edges of each green leaf, resembles so many bright torches. N.B. I saw the whole Tree as the Angel held it before me as distinctly as I ever saw a natural tree. I felt very cautious when I took hold of it lest the blaze should touch my hand." "Seen and received by Hannah Cohoon in the City of Peace [Hancock] Sabbath Oct. 9th 10th hour A. M. 1845, drawn and painted by the same hand."

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