Alexander's Confidence with his Physician Philip

William Edward West

MEDIUMBrush and brown and black wash, with tan gouache, heightened with white gouache, with incising, on ivory laid paper, laid down on ivory laid card
DIMENSIONSPrimary support: 21.8 × 30 cm (8 5/8 × 11 13/16 in.); Secondary support: 30.1 × 36.9 cm (11 7/8 × 14 9/16 in.)
LOCATIONArt Institute of Chicago
COLLECTIONPrints and Drawings
CULTUREUnited States
CREDIT LINEGift of Dorothy Braude Edinburg to the Harry B. and Bessie K. Braude Memorial Collection

This drawing captures the intense moment Alexander the Great demonstrates his absolute trust in his physician, Philip, by drinking medicine despite a warning letter of poison. It's a powerful depiction of loyalty and a king's confidence in his inner circle.

Get the full experience in Art Whisper
Get it on Google Play Download on the App Store
ABOUT THIS WORK

In this dramatic scene, Alexander the Great stands before his physician Philip, who holds a letter warning the king that Philip intends to poison him. Alexander, however, trusts his doctor implicitly. He hands Philip the letter, then drinks the medicine Philip has prepared, a powerful gesture of faith that unfolds before us. The artist uses a stark, theatrical light to highlight Alexander's profile and the physician's concerned expression, drawing our attention to the emotional core of the narrative. The rich, dark washes create a sense of foreboding, emphasizing the high stakes of Alexander's decision. This drawing captures a pivotal moment of trust and loyalty, rendered with a keen eye for human drama.

LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

1

Alexander's unwavering gaze at Philip, conveying his trust.

2

The letter in Philip's hand, the source of the dramatic tension.

3

The cup of medicine, poised for Alexander's fateful drink.

2 more details waiting — unlock in Art Whisper
Audio Deep Dive

This drawing captures the intense moment Alexander the Great demonstrates his absolute trust in his physician, Philip, by drinking medicine despite a warning l…

Hear the full story in the app
THE ARTIST
William Edward West 1788–1857 · United States

William Edward West, an American portrait painter, captured the likenesses of wealthy families and collaborated with author Washington Irving.

Read William's full story in Art Whisper
See something wrong?
Open the App