A History of the Time A.K.A King Solomon's Palace

Although "A History of Time" is one of Francis Griffith's earliest works, it is arguably his largest and most ambitious. Having been away from Barbados for over two decades working as a seaman, Griffith created this work after his return to the newly independent nation of his home. This painting depicts a banquet for the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon, with figures and patterns within the composition arranged to represent a grand palace. Intricate and complex in narrative, overlapping biblical events with images of the World War II allies can be seen, including Moses dividing the Red Sea at the top of the painting. Rows of banquet halls flank a mandala stage in the center with multiple representations of the King and Queen. This painting, like many of his early pieces is signed 'Son et Luimere' (sic), a name he reserved for his most mystical and personal works. "A History of Time" stands testament to the unique vision and visual language of Francis Griffith as a Barbadian artist.