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Notes
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Alexander the Great (356–323 BC) lies on a bed drinking medicine given to him by Philip, his doctor. Philip has been accused of treachery against his leader in a letter, which he is reading aloud to Alexander. Hands raised in horror, eyes widened, their companions wait to discover the truth. Alexander gazes towards Philip to acknowledge his innocence and loyalty, which is further proven as Alexander’s health improves. A male figure glances towards us to invite our reaction. This scene is inspired by Plutarch’s Life of Alexander. He frequently appeared in seventeenth-century paintings and tapestries as a popular heroic figure, although this story was rarely depicted. A shield hanging above the bed reflects his military success as leader of Greece and an expanding empire.
Title
Alexander and his Doctor
Date
about 1648-9
Medium
Oil on canvas
Measurements
H 96 x W 96 cm
Accession number
NG6576
Acquisition method
Bought with the support of a number of gifts in wills, 1999
Work type
Painting
The National Gallery, London
Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London WC2N 5DN England
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