Who painted Poros Assailed by the Macedonian Army (recto)?

Poros Assailed by the Macedonian Army (recto) was painted by Perino del Vaga in 1546.

Where can I see Poros Assailed by the Macedonian Army (recto)?

Poros Assailed by the Macedonian Army (recto) is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Poros Assailed by the Macedonian Army (recto)?

Poros Assailed by the Macedonian Army (recto) is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Poros Assailed by the Macedonian Army (recto)

Perino del Vaga , 1546

Poros Assailed by the Macedonian Army (recto) is a drawing by the Renaissance artist Perino del Vaga. It dates from 1546 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The artist borrowed a pose straight from Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling, right down to the way the man’s arm cocks back with his sword.

You see soldiers in swirling armor, swords raised, horses rearing—all sketched in quick, dark lines and pale washes.

This is a practice drawing for a big wall painting in a pope’s castle. The artist borrowed a pose straight from Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling, right down to the way the man’s arm cocks back with his sword.

To see how Michelangelo did it, look up the subject *Italy, 16th century*.

Overview

This drawing is a preparatory study for a fresco cycle depicting Alexander the Great's military campaigns, intended for the Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows the Macedonian army attacking Poros, with soldiers, horses, and elephants in combat, drawing on classical historical subject matter.

Technique & Style

Executed in pen and ink with wash, the drawing features rapid, expressive lines and contrasting light and dark tones, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing dynamic movement.

History & Provenance

Created by Perino del Vaga, who was influenced by Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel frescoes, for Pope Paul III's apartments.

Context

The artist adapted a pose from Michelangelo's David and Goliath for a military context, demonstrating the artistic exchange and influence within 16th-century Rome.

Artist & collection

Artist

Perino del Vaga

Piero Bonaccorsi (1501 – October 19, 1547), known as Perino (or Perin) del Vaga, was an Italian painter and draughtsman of the Late Renaissance/Mannerism.