Dutch school of the second third of the 17th century.

Dutch school of the second third of the seventeenth century.
"Alexander the Great visits Diogenes".
Oil on panel. Cradled.
It has apocryphal signature in the lower right corner.
Measurements: 78 x 62 cm; 90 x 74 cm (frame).

The wake of Jan Aertsz Marienhof is evidenced in the present work, his characteristic style preciosita and of clear influence of Rubens were a sign of identity that would provide him a remarkable popularity. Its proximity in style with the work entitled "Alexander the Great visits Diogenes" has made it to be attributed to him in the past. The anonymous authorship of this outstanding panel is not certain at the moment.

In this painting, the legendary meeting between Alexander the Great and Diogenes is probably being narrated. The conqueror was in Corinth, and upon learning of the fame of the cynical philosopher Diogenes, he decided to visit him. He found him next to his barrel, in which he lived. Here we see the philosopher engaged in reading a book and, upon the arrival of the emperor, extends his arm in an attitude of rejection. The Cynics defended that happiness could only be achieved through virtue and austere life, models completely opposed to the quest for glory of the ambitious emperor. This is a painting of remarkable quality, which can be seen in the sumptuous silk and brocade robes of Alexander and his entourage, in complete contrast to the long beard and the destitute appearance of Diogenes. Next to him, we see the barrel with a hole to be used as a house. The landscape is sublime, and hosts an imaginative sculptural stone fountain.

Alexander, impressed by Diogenes' fame, approached him and offered to fulfill any wish he had. Diogenes, undeterred by the presence of the mighty king, replied, "Stand back a little, you are blocking my sun." This simple response reflects Diogenes' philosophy, which valued independence and self-sufficiency over wealth and power. Alexander, far from being angered, was admired by Diogenes' attitude and recognized his wisdom. It is said that he even remarked to his companions: "If I were not Alexander, I would like to be Diogenes".