Wedding of Alexander and Roxanne (workshop) Raphael (1483-1520)

The painting depicts a scene from classical mythology, specifically the wedding of Alexander the Great and Roxana. The composition is divided into two main parts: on the left, Roxana is shown seated on a lavish bed, being prepared for the wedding ceremony; on the right, Alexander, in armor and a helmet, is led forward by attendants and cherubic figures.

What I see:

• Left side: A richly decorated bed covered with white and golden drapery dominates the left half of the painting. Roxana, a nude or semi-nude woman with fair skin, sits on the edge of the bed, wearing a white cloth around her lower body. A cherub (putto) with wings is at her feet, tending to one of her legs, symbolizing the act of adorning her for the occasion. Another cherub hovers over her head, perhaps adjusting her hair or placing a garment.
• Center: Alexander, identifiable by his military attire, stands in the center. He wears a golden helmet and a green cape, with a muscular physique. He is being guided or presented forward. Behind him, an older man, possibly a groom or advisor, holds a torch aloft. Several other cherubic figures surround Alexander, some appearing to assist him or push him forward. One putto, kneeling, is pulling on Alexanders leg.
• Right side: A group of cherubs is depicted on the right, some holding a large golden shield or cymbal and a spear. They are in motion, seeming to celebrate or usher in the procession.
• Background: The background is a landscape with rolling hills under a pale sky, suggesting an outdoor or partially outdoor setting for the ceremony.
• Frame: The entire scene is set within an oval frame, adorned with ornate golden decorative elements, particularly at the top and bottom corners, indicating its part of a larger decorative scheme.

Subtexts:

• Union and Alliance: The central theme is the union of Alexander and Roxana, which was a politically significant marriage that cemented an alliance between Macedon and Persia. The painting visually represents the merging of different worlds or cultures through this union.
• Conquest and Love: Alexander was a conqueror, and this marriage, though perhaps originating in love or admiration, also served a strategic purpose in his expansion. The presence of Alexander in armor might subtly allude to his military might, while the celebration and wedding itself point to the pacifying or unifying aspect of his conquests.
• Divine Blessing and Celebration: The abundance of cherubic figures, common in Renaissance art, suggests divine or angelic participation and approval of the union. They add a sense of joy and festivity to the event. The torch held by the attendant could symbolize enlightenment, the continuation of a lineage, or the celebration of the union.
• Beauty and Idealization: Roxana is depicted with idealized beauty, highlighting her status and desirability. Similarly, Alexander is portrayed as a heroic figure. The scene is likely intended to glorify both individuals and the significant historical event.
• Transition and Transformation: Roxana is shown in a state of transition, being adorned and prepared to become Alexanders wife. This can be seen as a transformation from a maiden to a bride and queen.

The painting, attributed to a workshop, likely reflects the artistic conventions and symbolic language of the period it was created in, aiming to convey a grand and important historical or mythological event with an emphasis on beauty, power, and divine sanction.