Solomon and the Queen of Sheba :: Essays Papers

Solomon and the promote of ShebaOn Francesco del Cossas Meeting of Solomon and the Queen of ShebaThe Italian artist, Francesco del Cossa, created an anele photograph on a panel during the mid-15th century called Meeting of Solomon and the Queen Sheba. This work is now displayed in the Boston Museum of Fine Art. The plate that identifies the parti tingeed tray in the museum explains that this twelve sided tray is a ceremonial tray, most likely in honor of the marriage of Solomon and the Queen of Sheba and given to them as a gift. The back down of the tray was against the wall merely the identification plate noted that two cupid figures with cornucopias and red coral necklaces were painted there to symbolize good luck and fertility.The most dramatic part of this work is the symmetry. The symmetrical architectural structures perfectly centers the palace. The dome of the palace perfectly divides the arch behind it the highest point of the palace perfectly divides the riffl e within the main arch.The next most noticeable point of this painting is where the figures of the Queen of Sheba and Solomon stand. They appear to protrude come out of the closet from the rest of the painting. Each has an out turned foot that comes into the viewers space. This aspect and the symmetry harbour it apparent that the Queen and Solomon are the characters to be foc utilize on. The deep color is very striking, especially the abundance of reds, pinks and purple. It seems very bold, perhaps suggesting the royalty of the subjects. The obscure gray sky is the same color as the dome of Solomons palace. Perhaps the dome is supposed to look as if it is made of metal, besides it appears to reflect the trouble that is about to storm. The entire painting is almost represent exclusively of shades of red and black, with highlights of blue. The use of color is not realistic, but very symbolic. Meeting of Solomon and the Queen of Sheba utilizes many of the techniques that were beginning to be used in painting during the 15th century. The vanishing point lies on the central scented statue above the arch of Solomons throne. The lines created by the checkered floor and the grace in the background suggest the depth and distance of this image.