Alexander and the Family of Darius from a set of The Story of Alexander 1695 - 1740

Charles Le Brun created this tapestry, Alexander and the Family of Darius, as part of a series of tapestries which depict the story of Alexander. These tapestries offer a window into the cultural and political landscape of 17th-century France under Louis XIV, who was a major patron of the arts. The depiction of Alexander the Great served as an allegory for Louis XIV's own imperial ambitions. Le Brun, as the court painter, was instrumental in shaping the visual identity of the king's reign. In this scene, we see Alexander meeting the family of Darius, the defeated Persian king. Note the emotional dynamic, the women kneeling in supplication, and Alexander's gesture of clemency. This tapestry operates on multiple levels. It tells a story of military conquest, but also engages with themes of mercy, power, and gender. The tapestry is really about projecting an image of French power and sophistication on the European stage. The emotional intensity of the scene invites us to consider the human cost of empire.