Who painted Alexander the Great and Campaspe in the Studio of Apelles?

Alexander the Great and Campaspe in the Studio of Apelles was painted by Francesco Fontebasso in 1744.

Where can I see Alexander the Great and Campaspe in the Studio of Apelles?

Alexander the Great and Campaspe in the Studio of Apelles is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Alexander the Great and Campaspe in the Studio of Apelles?

Alexander the Great and Campaspe in the Studio of Apelles is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Alexander the Great and Campaspe in the Studio of Apelles

Francesco Fontebasso , 1744

Alexander the Great and Campaspe in the Studio of Apelles is an ink print by the Baroque artist Francesco Fontebasso. It dates from 1744 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Alexander the Great and Campaspe in the Studio of Apelles is an etching on laid paper created by Francesco Fontebasso in 1744. The work showcases Fontebasso's skill in capturing complex scenes with nuanced light and texture.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a scene from ancient history, showing Alexander the Great observing the artist Apelles paint his muse Campaspe. The crowded studio setting includes multiple figures and activities, blending reality and artistic representation.

Technique & Style

Fontebasso employed shading to create a sense of depth and dimensionality, with detailed renderings of fabric folds and light effects. The mix of real and sketched elements, such as the window view, highlights the artist's study of real life.

History & Provenance

Francesco Fontebasso, a Venetian artist trained under Sebastiano Ricci and influenced by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, created this etching in 1744. He later worked on decorative projects, including in Saint Petersburg's Winter Palace.