Alexander de Grote wordt uit de Cydnus gedragen c. 1655 - 1665

Leonaert Bramer's "Alexander de Grote wordt uit de Cydnus gedragen" (c. 1655-1665), a delicate black chalk drawing housed in the Rijksmuseum, depicts a scene from the life of Alexander the Great. The drawing shows the moment Alexander is carried from the Cydnus River, where he was said to have fallen ill, likely referencing a story of his near-fatal poisoning. This historical subject was popular in Dutch art, particularly during the 17th century, and Bramer's rendition showcases his skillful use of line to depict the dynamic poses and dramatic gestures of the figures in the scene. The subtle shading and background details contribute to the overall sense of narrative, highlighting the dramatic event and Alexander's vulnerability.