Alexander the Great and the High Priest of Jerusalem

1544

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

Dominant colour

Alexander the Great and the High Priest of Jerusalem is a 1544 by Master IRs, a Renaissance work, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.

Who painted this?: Master IRs
When & what style?: 1544 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?: Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

The painting shows Alexander the Great on his knees in front of the high priest of Jerusalem. The story behind this painting is based on an ancient legend. It's interesting that this legend has been passed down for so long and is still depicted in art today. You can learn more about this style of art at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

The story of this work

Overview

According to ancient legend, when Alexander the Great (356–323 BC) came into the presence of the high priest of Jerusalem, he was so awestruck by the priest's piety that he approached the holy man on his knees.

Read the full account in the museum source.