The Illness of Antiochus

"The Sickness of Antiochus" or "Stratonice and Antiochus" is a remarkable painting completed in 1840 by French artist Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres. This masterpiece is currently housed at the Musée Condé in Chantilly, France.

The narrative behind the painting is compelling. It was commissioned by Prince Ferdinand Philippe, Duke of Orléans, who wished to complement another piece in his collection. Ingres began working on it in 1838 and completed it two years later in Rome. The Duke was elated with the final result and compensated Ingres with a substantial sum of 6000 francs.

Following the Duke's untimely death, the painting was inherited by his widow, and it subsequently changed hands several times. Eventually, it came into the possession of the Duke's brother, the Duke of Aumale, who proudly displayed it at his Château de Chantilly.

The painting is based on a dramatic tale from Plutarch's "Life of Demetrius" and other historical texts. It depicts Antiochus, who is deeply in love with his stepmother, Stratonice. His unspoken love causes him such distress that he is on the brink of death. The scene captures the pivotal moment when the physician Erasistratus identifies the true cause of Antiochus' mysterious illness.

Ingres was influenced by his teacher, Jacques-Louis David, who had also painted this subject. He also drew inspiration from various sources such as music, opera, and ancient Roman art, particularly sculptures and funerary monuments.

Interestingly, Ingres revisited this theme multiple times, creating several versions, sketches, and copies of the painting. These variations not only provide insight into his creative process but also illustrate how his interpretation of the story evolved over time.