The Glory Train is a potent and persistent Christian metaphor in music, word, and visual art. Often described as a silver train, its reflective surface is a sign of God’s blazing light. Some believe the symbolism derives from a translation of Ephesians 4: “Therefore it is said, When He ascended on high, He led a train of vanquished foes.” In this work, revivalist Baptist minister Howard Finster has captured the silvery transcendence of the Glory Train through his literal use of silver metallic wire.

Stacy C. Hollander, "Train," exhibition label for Ooh, Shiny!. Stacy Hollander, curator. New York: American Folk Art Museum, 2010.