Alexander and his Doctor

Image credit: The National Gallery, London

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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.

The National Gallery, London

London

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

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The National Gallery, London

Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London WC2N 5DN England

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