The Meeting of Alexander the Great and Diogenes

Gaspar de Crayer

Created:
Movement:
1669
Baroque
key Notes:
Classical Encounter, Philosophical Contrast
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Dimensions:
88 3/4 x 127 5/8 in. (225.4 x 324.2 cm), including added strips of 13 1/2 in. (34.3 cm) at left and 15 1/2 in. (39.4 cm) at right
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

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The Meeting of Alexander the Great and Diogenes

Artist: Gaspar de Crayer

Year: 1669

Medium: Oil on canvas

Artistic and Historical Context

"The Meeting of Alexander the Great and Diogenes" by Gaspar de Crayer captures a legendary encounter between the Macedonian conqueror and the Greek philosopher, illustrating themes of power and simplicity. This work reflects the Baroque period's emphasis on dramatic storytelling and dynamic composition. De Crayer, a prominent Flemish painter, was known for his religious and historical scenes, often characterized by their vivid color and expressive figures. His work was influential in the Southern Netherlands, where he served as a court painter and contributed to the artistic landscape of the 17th century. The painting exemplifies de Crayer's skill in conveying complex narratives through detailed character interactions and rich visual elements.

Description of the work:

"The Meeting of Alexander the Great and Diogenes" by Gaspar de Crayer, created in 1669, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts the legendary encounter between the Macedonian conqueror and the Greek philosopher, highlighting themes of power and simplicity. The artwork is characterized by its Baroque style, with dramatic contrasts of light and shadow and dynamic composition, typical of de Crayer's oeuvre.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Meeting of Alexander the Great and Diogenes