A Series of Paintings by Josephine Matsen

Developed over a period of twenty years, Matsen’s depiction of ancient artifacts re-imagined in mythical landscapes draws on intensive research. Ranging from Stone Age caves through the great early Mediterranean civilizations and into European Christian culture, they document the iconographic continuity between civilizations. Filled with intricate detail and a bit of whimsy, these paintings are meant to convey the fondness and respect Matsen had for her subject.

Paleolithic, c. 30,000 BC

Ancient Sahara, c. 10,000 BC

Balkans, c. 3000 BC

Avebury, c. 3000 BC

Sumer, c. 3000 BC

Egypt, c. 3000 BC

Crete, c. 1500 BC

Boeotia, c. 500 BC

Christian, c. 1400 AD

Celtic (Denmark), c. 100 BC

Catal Huyuk, c. 5000 BC

Malta, c. 3000 BC