The Mother in the Mountain

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

Paleolithic, c. 30,000 BC

Ancient Sahara

Ancient Sahara, c. 10,000-7000 BC

 

Balkans

Balkans, c. 5000-2000BC

Avebury

Avebury (England), c. 2500 BC

 

Sumer

Sumer, c. 2000BC

Egypt

Egypt, c. 3000 BC

 

Crete

Crete, c. 1500 BC

Boeotia

Boeotia, c. 800 BC

 

Christian

Christian, c. 1400 AD

Celtic

Celtic (Denmark), c. 100 BC

 

Catal Huyuk

Catal Huyuk, c. 5000 BC

Malta

Malta, c. 3000 BC