The Marriage of Alexander and Roxana
Original title: The marriage of Alexander and Roxana; Alexander surrounded by putti, offering a crown to Roxana who is seated at right
kurzbeschreibung
The marriage of Alexander the Great to Roxana is the subject of this engraving by Giovanni Jacopo Caraglio, made between 1520 and 1539. Alexander, in armour and surrounded by putti, holds out a crown to Roxana, who sits enthroned at the right. The layout is balanced and follows classical principles of design.
Description
Alexander stands at the centre in full armour with his helmet, offering a crown to Roxana. She is seated on the right, attended by several putti who carry objects or engage with the figures. To Alexander's left another man appears with shield and lance. An even arrangement draws the eye to the main couple. Rich in detail, the print combines realistic traits with idealized forms.
Context
Caraglio, an Italian engraver of the Renaissance, worked closely with artists such as Parmigianino. This print dates from the first half of the sixteenth century, when antique subjects were studied with great intensity. The wedding of Alexander and Roxana refers to an event of classical history that the Renaissance regarded as an emblem of power and concord.
Impact
The balanced grouping and calm distribution of the figures give the sheet a solemn, dignified mood. Attention settles on the central gesture of coronation, the symbolic high point of the scene. A classical harmony radiates from the work, in keeping with Renaissance ideals.
Technique
Engraving is an intaglio process in which lines are cut into a copper plate. The monochrome palette and even spread of light are characteristic of the method. Fine lines and hatching allow precise rendering of detail and of the textures of armour and drapery.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)