King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba
Medium
Tempera on wood, embossed and gilt ornament
Dimensions
Overall 20 3/4 x 70 1/8 in. (52.7 x 178.1 cm); left, painted surface 13 7/8 x 24 1/2 in. (35.2 x 62.2 cm); right, painted surface 14 x 24 3/4 in. (35.6 x 62.9 cm)
Classification
Paintings
Department
European Paintings
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1914
Accession Number
14.44
Tags
Art Historical Context
Behold the exquisite *King Solomon and the Queen ofba*, a masterful tempera on wood panel by the anonymous artist known as the Master of Lecceto. This wide, horizontal composition—measuring an impressive 20¾ x 70⅛ inches—captures a pivotal biblical moment from 1 Kings, where the wise King Solomon receives the Queen of Sheba, renowned for her wealth and intellect. Acquired through the Rogers Fund in 1914, it graces the European Paintings department at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The artwork's embossed and gilt ornamentation gleams with luxurious detail, elevating the narrative through shim...