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Description: | The ancient story of Croesus and Solon warns against relying on money and possessions for happiness and security. Croesus, King of Lydia, is shown displaying his riches to the philosopher, Solon. Solon's warning, that the humble men blessed with good fortune were happier than Croesus and all his wealth, earned the King's displeasure. However, when the Persian King, Cyrus, conquered Lydia and was in the process of burning his vanquished foe on a pyre, seen in the background of the painting, Croesus remembered the wisdom of Solon and called out his name three times, which so aroused the curiosity of Cyrus that he spared his victim's life. In this painting a stark contrast is created between the rich and beautiful attire of Croesus and his wife, and the plain garments worn by Solon. | Subjects: | religion (Croesus; Solon); figure; interior | Source: | Vads | Creator: | Artist: Casteleyn, Casper (Dutch artist, active 17th) Æ Attributed to Previously attributed to Backer, Adriaen (Dutch painter, born 1635 or 1636, died 1684) Previously attributed to Noort, Joan van (Dutch painter and printmaker, ca.1620 - ca. 1675) Previously attributed to Victors, Jan (Dutch painter; 1619-1676) Previously attributed to Weenix, Jan Baptist (Dutch painter and printmaker, born 1621, died 1660 or 1661) | Identifier: | http://www.vads.ac.uk/large.php?uid=8416... | Go to resource |
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