Alexander at the Tomb of Cyrus

1645/1650

Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

Associated Names
Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

Artist, Italian, 1609 - 1664

This is a painting of a scene with a warrior and an elderly figure near an ancient monument. The warrior is depicted in detailed armor, a helmet, and a cloak, leaning forward, interacting with the seated figure. The aged figure is wearing robes and has a crown of leaves. A monumental structure can be seen in the background, along with fabric draping. The sky shows clouds and urn-like structures. The image uses warm and muted colors, creating light and shadow effects on the figures and surroundings. This painting style is reminiscent of Giovanni Battista Tiepolo.

Media Options

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Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Monsieur E. Pinguely. (Lorna Lowe, London); purchased 1981 by NGA.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1983

  • Graphics Survey Exhibition, National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C., February 1983.

1997

  • Six Centuries/Six Artists, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 1997.

2012

  • The Baroque Genius of Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D. C., 2012

Bibliography

1992

  • National Gallery of Art, Washington. Washington, D.C., 1992: 319, repro.

Inscriptions

center: Memorie / VITA

Wikidata ID

Q64572395

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