The Calumny of Apelles

"The Calumny of Apelles," created by John Vanderlyn in 1849, is a neoclassical painting that draws inspiration from a lost work by the ancient Greek painter Apelles, depicting the themes of slander and justice. Vanderlyn's composition features allegorical figures representing Calumny, Truth, and the consequences of false accusations, reflecting the artist's interest in classical themes and moral narratives.

"The Calumny of Apelles" by John Vanderlyn, created in 1849, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts a dramatic scene inspired by the ancient story of Apelles, showcasing a central figure accused of wrongdoing surrounded by allegorical representations of Ignorance, Suspicion, and Calumny. The composition is characterized by its dynamic arrangement of figures, rich color palette, and meticulous attention to detail, reflecting Vanderlyn's neoclassical style and mastery of form.