Where is Aristotle with a Bust of Homer displayed?

The painting hangs at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. They purchased it in 1961 for a then-record price.

Who commissioned this painting?

Sicilian nobleman Antonio Ruffo commissioned it in 1653. Rembrandt later painted two companion works for him.

What does the gold chain represent?

The gold chain bears a medallion of Alexander the Great, connecting Aristotle to his famous pupil and suggesting reflection on worldly success Rembrandt created it as part of the Dutch artistic tradition.

What size is this painting?

The canvas measures 143.5 by 136.5 centimeters (about 56.5 by 54 inches). Rembrandt completed it in 1653.

Where Is Aristotle with a Bust of Homer (Aristotle

Dutch artist Rembrandt painted this Aristotle with a Bust of Homer in 1653 for the Sicilian nobleman Antonio Ruffo. The commission didn't specify a subject, leading to centuries of debate about who the richly dressed figure represents. Julius Held argued convincingly in 1969 that it's Aristotle, based on the long hair, fancy clothing, and connection to Homer.

Aristotle rests one hand on a sculpted head of the blind poet Homer while wearing a gold chain bearing a medallion of Alexander the Great, whom Aristotle tutored. The composition suggests meditation on fame, wealth, and creative legacy. The philosopher seems to weigh material success against Homer's timeless artistic achievement.

The painting measures 143.5 by 136.5 centimeters and hangs at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. In 1961, the Met purchased it for $2.3 million, then the highest price ever paid for a painting at auction. Rembrandt later painted Homer and Alexander for the same patron.