Diogenes and Alexander; verso: Caricatures of a Cat c. 18th century

Curator: Johann Heinrich Tischbein the Elder’s drawing, "Diogenes and Alexander," now residing at the Harvard Art Museums, depicts the well-known encounter between these two figures. Editor: It's like a snapshot of arrogance meeting nonchalance. The washes of sepia ink give it this beautifully faded, dreamlike quality, a fleeting moment caught on paper. Curator: Absolutely. Tischbein captures a pivotal moment within the context of power and philosophy. Alexander, symbolizing worldly authority, confronts Diogenes, who embodies a rejection of societal norms. This speaks volumes about alternative value systems. Editor: I see it as Alexander, all decked out and impressive, completely missing the point of Diogenes' simple existence. It's kind of comical, actually, the way Diogenes just chills, seemingly unimpressed. Curator: That’s the crux of it, isn't it? Diogenes challenges the very notion of what constitutes a "good" life, questioning Alexander's relentless pursuit of conquest. Editor: There's a universal truth in this sketch. It's a gentle reminder that sometimes, the greatest treasures are found not in power or possessions, but in contentment and self-awareness. Curator: Indeed, the drawing allows us to reflect on historical legacies and personal choices in a way that resonates profoundly.