Glaucus and Scylla c. 1661

Salvator Rosa made this drawing, Glaucus and Scylla, using pen and brown ink on paper. He worked in 17th-century Italy, when the classical tradition was very much alive. The ink allowed Rosa to achieve fine lines and subtle tonal variations, crucial for capturing the dynamic movement and emotional intensity of the figures. Notice how the ink bleeds slightly into the paper, giving a softness and depth to the image. The drawing’s monochromatic palette enhances the drama, focusing attention on line and form. Rosa’s skillful handling of the pen, building up layers of lines to create volume and shadow, imbues the scene with a palpable sense of energy. The drawing exemplifies the enduring influence of classical mythology on European art. Rosa reminds us that even a simple tool like a pen and ink, wielded with mastery, could convey profound stories and emotions, making “drawing” a highly valued skill in the field of fine art.