The Crossing of the Granicus, from The Story of Alexander the Great 1619

Woven by Karel van Mander the Younger around the start of the 17th century, this tapestry captures Alexander the Great leading his troops across the Granicus River. Observe how Alexander, positioned prominently, raises his arm, a gesture of command. It echoes the classical world and recalls images of emperors and gods. Think of Augustus of Prima Porta, for example. This act of raising one's arm in triumph, in charge, is a symbol of power found throughout art history. Its potency stems from its ability to evoke subconscious associations with leadership and authority. Interestingly, the image of the triumphant leader raising his arm has morphed over time, appearing in religious contexts, such as Christ, or in political propaganda to inspire and mobilize populations. It taps into our collective memory, eliciting an emotional response tied to our understanding of power dynamics. The tapestry's composition, dense with figures, emphasizes the chaos and valor of battle. Ultimately, the enduring image of Alexander transcends temporal bounds. It resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings, demonstrating the cyclical progression of symbols across generations.