Apelles schildert Alexander de Grote en Campaspe c. 1543 - 1545

This etching, attributed to the Monogrammist IQV, depicts the Greek painter Apelles painting Campaspe, the mistress of Alexander the Great. The scene is set within a complex, ornate frame that features putti, grotesques, and other decorative elements. The artist’s use of chiaroscuro and detailed rendering of the figures creates a sense of depth and realism. The image is a testament to the enduring popularity of this historical anecdote in Renaissance art, showcasing the power and prestige of both art and rulers.