Queen of Saba (1833 - 1891)

Fritz Thomsen’s painting, “Queen of Saba,” presents a compelling and intimate glimpse into 19th-century stable life. This piece, created sometime between 1833 and 1891, masterfully combines elements of realism with a rich narrative quality.The scene is set within the rustic confines of a stable, where a sturdy bay horse stands prominently, dominating the composition. Its coat gleams with chestnut hues, highlighted subtly by Thomsen’s controlled use of light, creating a texture so vivid one can almost feel the smoothness of the horse's coat and the coarseness of the straw beneath its hooves.To the left of the canvas, a woman leans nonchalantly against a wooden partition, her gaze directed towards the horse with an expression that blends contemplation and companionship. She wears a simple dress typical of a stable maid, finished with a practical apron and a headscarf, projecting an air of quiet confidence and ease in her environment.This painting not only portrays a moment of peaceful co-existence between human and animal but also beautifully captures the essence of daily life in a bygone era. The attention to detail, from the texture of the wood and straw to the placid expression of the horse, invites observers to ponder the story behind the scene and the bond between the figures presented.