William Henry Dethlef Koerner: The Painter of Prairie Faith Wilhelm Heinrich Detlev “Big Bill” Körner (November 1878 – August 11, 1938) was a prolific American illustrator and painter whose distinctive style captured the spirit of the American West during its formative years. Born in Germany, he emigrated to Iowa at a young age, establishing himself as a respected artist and teacher who profoundly impacted the visual culture of his adopted homeland. His canvases are celebrated for their serene landscapes imbued with religious symbolism—particularly depictions of Mary Magdalene—and offer a po…