Aristotle with a Bust of Homer

Aristotle (384 - 322 B.C.) rests his hand on a bust of Homer, his hero and the epic poet of the Iliad and the Odyssey. On the golden chain hangs a medallion representing Alexander the Great, whom Aristotle mentored. In this painting, Dutch Master Rembrandt van Rijn depicts the philosopher deep in thought as he contemplates the tenuous balance between material rewards and spiritual values. Rembrandt's use of light and shadow on his features suggests the tumult of his thoughts. The painting also makes reference to Aristotle's interest in the senses of touch and sight as they relate to learning.