ARTWORKS

Alexander and Diogenes

John Martin (1789–1854)

Hatton Gallery

Alexander and Diogenes

Image credit: Hatton Gallery

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In this small but exquisite oil painting, with its characteristic dramatic, towering architecture, Martin depicts the legendary meeting of the Greek Cynic philosopher Diogenes, who taught that the virtuous life is the simple life and dramatically discarded conventional comforts and the all-conquering Alexander the Great. After being questioned by the philosopher on his ambition, the impressed Alexander asked what he might do for him, Diogenes said, ‘If you can just stand a little to the side, because you are preventing the sun. That will be enough gratitude and I will remain thankful for my whole life.'

Hatton Gallery

Newcastle upon Tyne

Title

Alexander and Diogenes

Medium

oil on board

Measurements

H 22 x W 33.5 cm

Accession number

NEWHG:2000.004

Acquisition method

bequeathed by Sir Steven Runciman, 2000

Work type

Painting

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Hatton Gallery

The Quadrangle, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE1 7RU England

This venue is open to the public. Not all artworks are on display. If you want to see a particular artwork, please contact the venue.
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Artist or maker

John Martin

1789–1854

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