Campaspe

/kæmˈpæspiː/ noun

Definition

A historical reference to a legendary beautiful woman from ancient Greece, specifically the mistress of Alexander the Great.

Etymology

From ancient Greek sources, the name 'Campaspe' appears in classical literature, particularly in Pliny's accounts of the painter Apelles, whose artwork featured Alexander's mistress.

Kelly Says

Campaspe's story shows how Renaissance and Romantic artists obsessed over 'lost' classical figures—she became more famous through paintings about her than through any actual historical events in her life.

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