Painting on copper
"Adoration of the Magi"
Southern school
Balthazar is the only magus to be represented with earrings and jewelry.
(France, 17th c.)
Magos Foundation Collection
WITH THE INTENSIFICATION OF SLAVERY, THE BLACK MAGUS BECOMES EXCENTRIC, EVAPORATED
(16th/17th c.)
The image of the Black man deteriorates in Europe due to the intensification of slavery. In order to conceal a sad reality and offer a subversive counterpoint, artists represent the Black Magus in an effeminate or androgynous way. He wears large feathers on his hats, likes tight stockings, bodices tied under his chest, and adorns himself with extravagant gems. The Black Magus wears clothes that no White Magus would dare to wear!