Gordian Knot Collection

Allegorical portrait of Henri IV, first quarter of 17th century (engraving)
488566 Allegorical portrait of Henri IV, first quarter of 17th century (engraving) by Gaultier, Leonard (1561-1641); Musee de la Ville de Paris, Musee Carnavalet, Paris

Alexander cutting the Gordian Knot (litho)
3627364 Alexander cutting the Gordian Knot (litho) by Castaigne, Jean Alexandre Michel Andre (1861-1929); Private Collection; (add.info.: Alexander cutting the Gordian Knot)

Alexander cuts the Gordian knot (oil on canvas)
5974665 Alexander cuts the Gordian knot (oil on canvas) by Ferrari, Lorenzo de (1680-1744); Musei di Strada Nuova, Palazzo Bianco, Genoa, Italy; Luisa Ricciarini; Italian, out of copyright

Punch cartoon: Peeps into the Studios - exhibition of the Royal Academy of Arts in Burlington House, London (engraving)
6034783 Punch cartoon: Peeps into the Studios - exhibition of the Royal Academy of Arts in Burlington House, London (engraving) by English School

The Ayah and her Charge, from "The Gordian Knot"(engraving)
1609651 The Ayah and her Charge, from " The Gordian Knot" (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: The Ayah and her Charge)

Detail of a Gordian Knot, House of Theseus, Paphos, Cyprus (mosaic)
696761 Detail of a Gordian Knot, House of Theseus, Paphos, Cyprus (mosaic) by Roman, (3rd century AD); House of Theseus, Paphos

Plate 2: Alexander Cutting the Gordian Knot, from The Deeds of Alexander the Great, 1608

Alexander the Great Cutting the Gordian Knot, ca. 1718-1719. Artist: Panini, Giovanni Paolo (1691-1765)
Alexander the Great Cutting the Gordian Knot, ca. 1718-1719. Found in the collection of the Walters Art Museum, Baltimore

Alexander the Great Cutting the Gordian Knot, 1736-1737. Artist: Retti, Livio (1692-1751)
Alexander the Great Cutting the Gordian Knot, 1736-1737. Found in the collection of the Rathaus, Schwabisch Hall

Alexander Cuts the Gordian Knot, late 18th / early 19th century. Artist: Jean Simon Berthelemy
Alexander Cuts the Gordian Knot, late 18th/early 19th century. From the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, Paris

Alexander the Great Cutting the Gordian Knot, 17th century. Artist: Matham, Theodor (1589-?)
Alexander the Great Cutting the Gordian Knot, 17th century. Found in the collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

Alexander Cutting Gordian Knot Study Fresco Castel Sant Angelo
Artokoloro

Plate 2 Alexander Cutting Gordian Knot Deeds
Artokoloro

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The Gordian Knot, a legendary puzzle that has captivated minds for centuries. From allegorical portraits to ancient mosaics, the enigma of this intricate knot has been depicted in various forms of art throughout history. In an allegorical portrait of Henri IV from the first quarter of the 17th century, we see a subtle reference to the Gordian Knot. Symbolizing the challenges faced by rulers, it reminds us that sometimes solutions require bold actions. Alexander cutting the a scene often portrayed in lithographs and oil paintings. This pivotal moment in history showcases Alexander's audacity as he slices through the seemingly impossible knot with his sword. It serves as a reminder that unconventional thinking can lead to extraordinary results. A pen and brown ink drawing with brush and brown wash depicts another rendition of Alexander Cutting the Gordian Knot. The artist captures both tension and determination on Alexander's face, emphasizing his unwavering resolve to conquer any obstacle before him. Even Punch cartoons have delved into this timeless tale. In one engraving titled "Peeps into the Studios, " we catch a glimpse of an exhibition at Burlington House featuring artwork inspired by the Royal Academy of Arts. Amongst these pieces is undoubtedly an interpretation or two related to this infamous knot. "The Ayah and her Charge" offers yet another perspective on this complex symbol through an engraving from "The Gordian Knot. " It explores themes beyond physical entanglement, perhaps alluding to societal constraints or personal struggles that require untangling. Detailing a mosaic found in Cyprus' House of Theseus, we witness a mesmerizing depiction showcasing intricately woven strands forming what appears to be a Gordian Knot. This ancient work exemplifies how even architectural marvels were influenced by this enduring legend. Plate 2 from "The Deeds of Alexander the Great" published in 1608 presents us with yet another representation where Alexander cuts through this perplexing challenge.