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Periander, Greek tyrant
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Periander, Greek tyrant
Periander (7th century BCE - 585 BCE), Greek tyrant and one of the Seven Sages of Greece. Periander ruled in the city of Corinth. He oversaw the upgrading of the port there and the construction of a ramp across the Isthmus of Corinth. This was used to drag ships across, using horse-drawn wheeled carriages, a short cut avoiding the long voyage around the Peloponnese islands.. In some ways this could be considered the first form of railway. The revenues were so large that he was able to abolish tax in Corinth. However, Periander was ruthless in protecting his power, killing or banishing anyone who could possibly usurp him. This engraving first appeared in The History of Philosophy by Thomas Stanley, published in London in 1656
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Media ID 6316323
© Todd-White Art Photography
1600s 1656 17th Century Drawing Engraving Isthmus Philosopher Philosophy Plate Railway Ramp Ruler Sage Ship Corinth Corinthian Mono Chrome Periander Sages Tyrant
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print depicts Periander, the Greek tyrant and one of the Seven Sages of Greece. Ruling over Corinth in the 7th century BCE, Periander's influence extended far beyond his city-state. Known for his ambitious projects, he oversaw the development of Corinth's port and constructed a remarkable ramp across the Isthmus of Corinth. This ingenious engineering feat allowed ships to be dragged across using horse-drawn wheeled carriages, providing a shortcut that bypassed the arduous voyage around the Peloponnese islands. In many ways, this early form of transportation can be seen as a precursor to railways. Periander's shrewdness was not limited to infrastructure improvements; he also managed to generate substantial revenues from these ventures. The wealth amassed was so significant that he abolished taxes within Corinth, earning him great popularity among its citizens. However, behind this facade of prosperity lay a darker side to Periander's rule. He ruthlessly eliminated anyone who posed even a remote threat to his power through banishment or execution. The engraving featured in this print originates from "The History of Philosophy" by Thomas Stanley published in London in 1656. It offers us an intriguing glimpse into ancient history and reminds us that even those celebrated for their wisdom may possess complex and controversial legacies. Captured beautifully by Todd-White Art Photography, this thought-provoking image invites contemplation on power dynamics, innovation, and human nature
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