Artwork

Alexander the Great on his Sickbed

Alexander the Great on his Sickbed, by Unknown artist
Alexander the Great on his Sickbed, by Unknown artist

Alexander the Great on his Sickbed is a photography by the Romanticist artist Unknown artist. It is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Alexander the Great on his Sickbed is a painting created by Xun Xu in 1806. It is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a scene of illness, with a woman, likely intended to represent Alexander the Great, lying on a red cushion. The figures around her display concern, suggesting a dramatic and emotional moment.

Technique & Style

The artist uses chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and dark, to create a dramatic mood. The dimly lit background makes the figures stand out, emphasizing their expressions and postures.

History & Provenance

Xun Xu was a Chinese musician, painter, and official who served in the state of Cao Wei before transitioning to the Jin dynasty. He was a member of the influential Xun family.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown artist

Xun Xu (c. 221 – 289), courtesy name Gongzeng, was a Chinese musician, painter, politician, and writer who lived during the late Three Kingdoms period and early Jin dynasty of China. Born in the influential Xun family,…