Tapestry 'Alexander the Great and the Murder of Cleitus' (1520) by UnknownNational Museum – Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania
The story depicted in the tapestry goes back to 328 BC
Action takes place in the city of Maracanda, where a drama that ended in tragedy unfolded between Alexander the Great and his friend and general-in-arms, Cleitus, who had saved Alexander's life six years prior in a battle at Garnicus.
SCENE I
A wagon overgrown with bunches of grapes,
Location
drawn by tigers and lynxes is featured amid a background of buildings and natural scenery.
Feast
The inscription 'IOYEVSETE' meaning 'mirth' is visible under the wagon wheel,
while the figure depicted in the wagon is most probably Euphrosyne, the Greek goddess of happiness and joy.
Mood
Next to the wagon there is an inscription 'SOMNOLENCE' – the quality or state of being drowsy, sleepy.
SCENE II
The friends became embroiled in a quarrel while feasting and exchanged insults, whereupon Alexander, caught up in a rage, struck Cleitus with a dagger.
One goblet, at Alexander's left hand, is tipped on its side and red wine is pouring out.
Crown
Alexander (with the inscription 'ALEXADRE' next to him) is depicted with a crown.
Climax
Alexander the Great stabs Cleitus in the chest with a dagger.
How do we know its Cleitus?
His name is written on his clothes, 'CLITVS'.
SCENE III. Regret
Realising what he had done, Alexander wanted to kill himself but was restrained by guards.
More Tapestries:
Tapestry Achilles among the Daughters of Lycomedes
Tapestry Priam Facing the City of Troy (from the set The Story of the Trojan War)
