Koning Darius I 1547 - 1585

Curator: This print, dating from the late 16th century, portrays King Darius I. Editor: He’s rather imposing! Look at his feet, those sinewy legs. It feels almost confrontational, despite the rather ancient scene in the background. What material is this rendering of King Darius constructed of? Curator: It’s an engraving. And though anonymous, it's clearly inspired by the Mannerist style of the period. Notice the rather exaggerated musculature. Editor: Ah, yes. Mannerism, I feel, makes this figure even larger than he would appear otherwise, given that it favors artificiality over realism. This engraving reminds me of what happened in 16th century Europe. I’m noticing how printmaking in the late Renaissance period really shaped how historical figures were popularized for a much wider audience, due to new means of dissemination of such images at the time. It makes you consider questions of who this Darius was intended for, and what political implications might the production of his image imply, being an important figure within the Persian empire. Curator: Interesting points. For me, the sword he holds is rather symbolic – the sword of power, leadership – but it also makes you wonder about violence and strength, and maybe that’s just part and parcel of history painting in general, especially that of powerful male figures. He almost seems like he is wearing the world on his shoulders. Editor: His bare feet intrigue me. You would think that as Darius I, that is a king who has a rather luxurious robe wrapped over his shoulders, that there may be some kind of slipper or some adornment of sandal. Curator: It gives him an unexpected human dimension, doesn't it? We almost feel like he can walk off the print and be closer to us than a king should ever be. It also reminds us of a common man: grounded in reality and walking on bare ground. Editor: I agree! Examining the materiality and form can really reshape our interpretation, making us consider things from entirely new perspectives! Curator: Exactly. I feel like I see King Darius in a different light now, one that balances power with humility.