Description

In 1732, Johann Conrad Beissel founded Ephrata Cloister as a religious community of German Baptists, also known as Dunkers. Beissel brought his followers to the site and established a convent and monastery. They escaped to form their own community because of dissatisfaction with contemporary theology and understanding of the Bible. They resented established churches and wanted to follow their own beliefs.

The members of the community practiced celibacy, embraced a strict and literal interpretation of the Bible, and demanded self-discipline from one another and themselves. They ate a single, small vegetarian meal each day and only slept for six hours each night, which included a break at midnight to wait for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. They incessantly prayed and attended hours-long church services. They valued education and the environment. They built the second printing press in America.

At its peak, Ephrata Cloister encompassed 250 acres and included 280 men and women, of which 80 practiced celibacy.

You will enjoy the attention to detail and subtle grasp of communal  spaces in each print,  making  these landmarks and their history a warm part of your home or office.  Each Panoramic Graphics edition print features artisanal inks on high quality lithographic paper and is authenticated by the Rich Ahern estate.   Grow your art collection or give as a gift.