Claude, 'Seaport with the Embarkation of the Queen of Sheba', 1648

The Queen of Sheba is travelling to ancient Jerusalem to meet wise King Solomon - a visit that will be remembered throughout history. One of the ships is carrying the treasures and spices she will offer as gifts.

This is Claude's vision of ancient Sheba. Everywhere, even in the hulls of the ships, the world he knew is spliced together with the ancient world he imagined.

Find out about the techniques Claude used to create this sublime scene:

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