Cyrus, King of Persia 17th century

This 17th-century anonymous etching depicts Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Achaemenid Empire, in a triumphant moment. He is shown on horseback, brandishing a spear, with a fallen enemy beneath his steed. The scene unfolds against a background of a distant cityscape, suggesting a scene of conquest. The inscription "CYRVVS MAIOR" further identifies the figure as Cyrus the Great. The etching exemplifies the 17th-century fascination with historical figures, particularly those of ancient Persia.