Diogenes of Sinope was a Greek philosopher and critic famous for carrying a lamp by day as he searched for an honest man. He scorned corrupt institutions, customs and values as flawed and self-serving and felt that virtue was better expressed in action than theory. He renounced wealth and lived a life of poverty. At times he was in exile and was even captured and enslaved by pirates.

In this painting, the lamp of Diogenes is also the North Star. The North Star is the end of the dipper handle of Ursa Minor, Latin for Little Bear who sits in the small boat guided by the star. In Greek mythology, Ursa Minor is Arcas, son of Callisto and Zeus. Callisto was a virginal nymph who lived with Artemis and her female entourage. Zeus seduced Callisto by appearing to her as Artemis and through the deceitful union Arcas was born. Zeus’ vengeful wife, Hera, transformed Callisto into a bear. Arcas grew up and became the king of Arcadia. One day, while hunting in the woods, he came across his mother in bear form. She raised up to greet her son, and right before Arcas shot her, Zeus lifted them both to the heavens, making them Ursa Major and Minor. 

Printed at the Highland Studio on archival William Turner Watercolor paper with a 1/2" border for easy framing, this print is virtually indistinguishable from the original painting.