The Punishment of Korah (Rebellion of Korah)

Three episodes unfold across a single square: at left, Korah and his followers bring censers to contest Aaron's priesthood; at right, the earth splits and engulfs the rebels; in the center, the sanctuary stands firm as Moses and Aaron intercede. Botticelli threads the scenes with calm geometry and pale, lucid color, translating a hard story into readable order. Painted in 1481–1482 for the early Sistine program, the fresco links Old Testament priestly authority to the Church's stewardship. Figures are elegant, gestures explicit, and the architecture looks Roman on purpose: divine law meets civic form.