the image was inspired by a lost Greek statue of Hercules dating around the mid 300s BCE

its patron and program

including the Sistine Chapel ceiling and the Medici Chapel tombs

they are known around the world for their timeless quality and craftsmanship

these charming hangings

Balthazar: A Black African King in Medieval and Renaissance Art illumination the image was inspired byEdited by Kristen Collins and Bryan C. Keene With an introduction by Henry Louis Gates Jr. This abundantly illustrated book examines the figure of Balthazar, one of the biblical magi, and explains how and why he came to be depicted as a Black African king. According to the Gospel of Matthew, magi from the East, following a star, traveled to Jerusalem bearing precious gifts for the infant Jesus. The magi were revered as wise men and later as kings.