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Alexander inspecting the Ruins of Esagila (litho)
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Alexander inspecting the Ruins of Esagila (litho)
8660923 Alexander inspecting the Ruins of Esagila (litho) by Wright, Henry Charles Seppings (1850-1937); Private Collection; (add.info.: Alexander inspecting the Ruins of Esagila. On his capture of Babylon in 331 BC Alexander, according to tradition, wished to restore Esagila, the temple of Marduk, which had been allowed to fall into decay since its partial destruction by Xerxes. But, on seeing the mounds of fallen brickwork, he gave up the idea. The piers of the bridge on which he stands are built in the shape of boats which they displaced. Illustration for Hutchinson's History of the Nations (Hutchinson, c.1920). Note: Image has been digitally enhanced to facilitate repro.); © Look and Learn
Media ID 38114886
© © Look and Learn / Bridgeman Images
Arab Country Arab Culture Babylon Babylonian Babylonians Captivity Capture Irak Iraq Iraq Iraq Iraqi Mesopotamia Shape Shapes Xerxes Xerxes The Great
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This lithograph captures the moment when Alexander the Great inspects the ruins of Esagila, the temple of Marduk in Babylon. According to tradition, upon capturing Babylon in 331 BC, Alexander had hoped to restore the temple which had fallen into disrepair since its partial destruction by Xerxes. However, upon seeing the mounds of fallen brickwork before him, he abandoned this ambitious plan.
The intricate details in this print showcase Alexander standing on piers shaped like boats that displaced them during construction. The scene is rich with historical significance and cultural symbolism, highlighting a pivotal moment in ancient Mesopotamian history.
The black and white imagery adds a sense of timelessness to this depiction of antiquity, transporting viewers back to a bygone era filled with grandeur and mystery. The bridge stretching out behind Alexander serves as a poignant reminder of both past glory and inevitable decay.
As we gaze upon this image, we are reminded of the fleeting nature of power and empire - a timeless lesson encapsulated in these ancient ruins that continue to captivate our imagination centuries later.
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