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Demetrius Nicator, King of Syria, Killed as He Attempts to Land at Tyre

Boucicaut Masterabout 1413–1415

The J. Paul Getty Museum

The J. Paul Getty Museum
Los Angeles, United States

The blood-red sky and green ocean form a menacing background against which the devious action of this miniature unfolds: a guard drives his battle-ax into Demetrius Nicator's back as he attempts to land in Tyre. Demetrius, king of Syria, was unpopular among his troops and subjects. His pride was his downfall, and he was deposed and imprisoned several times. Defeated and deserted by his wife and children, the king left Syria, taking a boat to Tyre. He planned to devote himself to the service of the god Hercules, who had a temple there. He arrived safely at the port, but the prefect of Tyre had him killed as he left his ship.

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  • Title: Demetrius Nicator, King of Syria, Killed as He Attempts to Land at Tyre
  • Creator: Boucicaut Master
  • Date Created: about 1413–1415
  • Location Created: Paris, France
  • Physical Dimensions: Leaf: 42 × 29.6 cm (16 9/16 × 11 5/8 in.)
  • Type: Folio
  • External Link: Find out more about this object on the Museum website.
  • Medium: Tempera colors, gold leaf, gold paint, and ink on parchment
  • Terms of Use: Open Content
  • Number: 96.MR.17.165v
  • Culture: French
  • Credit Line: The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles, Ms. 63, fol. 165v
  • Creator Display Name: Boucicaut Master or workshop (French, active about 1390 - 1430)
  • Classification: Manuscripts (Documents)
The J. Paul Getty Museum

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