Plato

Information

Materials Inks on thick deckle Khadi paper
Dimensions Approximately 29 x 41 cm.
This paper is handmade and some variation is expected.
Created Summer 2022.
Prints
This painting is reproduced in 7 signed and numbered archival prints on thick watercolour paper.

Explanation of the symbolism

This depiction of Plato fuses Classical, Hellenistic, and Byzantine elements. I have used the Prophet Elijah icon type for two reasons: firstly to highlight the fact that the vast majority of Greek icons actually rest on pre-Christian pictorial forms (one classic example is the hero Bellerophon slaying the Chimera, later used for St George and the dragon). Secondly, to reflect the appellation "Divine Plato," the fact that Plato is in fact depicted in Orthodox iconography as a righteous pagan, and because the cave formation was ideal for where I wanted to take this artistically.

The architectural framework is directly inspired by an ancient (classical period) grave stele found in Athens, reflecting Plato's era. The blue and green strips above his head represent the concentric circles of Atlantis as described in his Timaeus. The scroll in his hand has an excerpt from the Timaeus about God as thought and intellect, reflected in the point-in-circle at the apex of the stele. The wording in the panel describes the icon: Plato contemplates Socrates' daimon outside the cave, beneath Atlantis in a deliberately playful aide to the viewer.

The ornamentation is taken from Attic vases created during Plato's lifetime. The syncretic use of symbolism from diverse periods is typical of the Hellenistic era, which I have used as a point of reference for these compositions.

Commissions
If the original has sold, I will not create an identical copy for you, but I am happy to discuss making a fresh icon using slightly different materials. Please contact me at [email protected] with your specifications.