Balthazar: A Black African King in Medieval and Renaissance Art by Kristen Collins
Balthazar: A Black African King in Medieval and Renaissance Art by Kristen Collins
Balthazar: A Black African King in Medieval and Renaissance Art by Kristen Collins
Balthazar: A Black African King in Medieval and Renaissance Art by Kristen Collins
Balthazar: A Black African King in Medieval and Renaissance Art by Kristen Collins
Balthazar: A Black African King in Medieval and Renaissance Art by Kristen Collins

Balthazar: A Black African King in Medieval and Renaissance Art by Kristen Collins

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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. Over time, one of the three came to be known as Balthazar and to be depicted as a Black man.

Balthazar was familiar to medieval Europeans, appearing in paintings, manuscript illuminations, mosaics, carved ivories, and jewelry. But the origin story of this fascinating character uncovers intricate ties between Europe and Africa, including trade and diplomacy as well as colonization and enslavement.

In this book, experts in the fields of Ethiopian, West African, Nubian, and Western European art explore the representation of Balthazar as a Black African king. They examine exceptional art that portrays the European fantasy of the Black magus while offering clues about the very real Africans who may have inspired these images. Along the way, the authors chronicle the Black presence in premodern Europe, where free and enslaved Black people moved through public spaces and courtly circles. The volume’s lavish illustrations include selected works by contemporary artists who creatively challenge traditional depictions of Black history.

  • Author: Kristen Collins
  • Format: Paperback / softback 152 pages, 121 colour illustrations
  • Publisher: Getty Trust Publications
  • Imprint: J. Paul Getty Museum
  • Classifications: History of art: Byzantine & Medieval art c 500 CE to c 1400, Renaissance art, African history
  • Readership: General (US: Trade)
  • Weight: 734g
  • Dimensions: 216 x 270 x 15 (mm)
  • Tariff Codes: 49019900

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The Cornrow, founded by sisters Kemi (big sis) and Lara (little sis) in 2020, is a heartfelt tribute to their African and Caribbean heritage. With a deep passion for homeware, books, and lifestyle products that celebrate the Black experience, the sisters scour the globe for joyful representations of their culture. Kemi, who left a career in corporate finance during the UK lockdown, is the driving force behind The Cornrow, sharing her love for the brand on Instagram @CottageNoir. Lara, an accomplished digital marketing professional, is committed to supporting Black-owned brands and can be found on TikTok at ThisIsLaraLand. The Cornrow is a true family affair, with their mother Yasmin providing creative advice and gift-wrapping services @yasminwrapstar, and Yasmin's partner Jonathan, formerly of Chelsea Design Centre, offering invaluable retail advice. Together, they are on a mission to spotlight under-represented stories of Black and African diaspora design, introducing "Afro-aristo" as a fresh addition to traditional design trends.


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