Contemporary of Géricault and Delacroix, he had an interest in mediaeval history, and was intimately involved in politics, including the accession of King Louis-Philippe to the throne in 1830, and the Greek War of Independence.
history
Biography to the death of Darius the King of Persia, with superb paintings by Degas, Elisabetta Sirani, Altdorfer, Jan Brueghel the Elder, and more.
A glimpse into the fascinating story of Pompey, one of Rome’s most successful military commanders, who was murdered off the coast of Egypt when a fugitive from his father-in-law, Caesar.
The story of a Renaissance city-state on Sardinia, a good mother, and the state funeral of a great Greek general on Sicily – some of the paintings shown.
One of Rome’s greatest generals, he was consul for a record seven times, but died in the throes of the First Civil War, his hands covered with the blood of good Roman citizens.
A succession of victories, many by his personal bravery and leadership from the front. But ultimately they were unsuccessful – and Pyrrhic.
Two great generals who apparently met in not one but two paintings by Rubens. Together they secured the freedom of Greece within the Roman Empire.
Roman soldier of great valour, successful commander, but a disaster of a statesman. His story was told by Shakespeare, and in many paintings by Poussin, Kaufmann, and others.
One of the most colourful statesmen in classical history. A reckless love life with both men and women, and a general of Athens, who changed sides to help the Spartans and the Persians.
A precocious painter who was a favourite of Napoleon III, he taught at the École des Beaux-Arts for 25 years. Many of his students became Naturalists. Coincidence? Here’s his story and work.
