Battle of Alexander. 1529.
Oil on panel, 62 x 47" (157.5 x 119.5 cm). Alte Pinakothek, Munich.

In this oil painting, a gigantic vicious war can be seen at the base of the hill. This was the battle between the forces of Alexander and Darius, which Alexander triumphs. This Northern Renaissance masterpiece was the first of its kind to compare and contrast the bright High Renaissance style and the gothic dark medieval style of the Northern Renaissance.

From this bird's eye view, the skies seem to be clearing up and brightening as the fiery Sun slowly makes its way above the horizon. The river transcends into mountains and cloudy sky. The insect-like soldiers, clashing into one another become part of the magnificent landscape. The chaotic battle, as harsh and turbulent as it seems, becomes an beautifully surreal and spectacular sight.