Colma Lamenting the Death of Salgar and her Brother 1809

Bartolomeo Pinelli created this pen and brown wash drawing titled ‘Colma Lamenting the Death of Salgar and her Brother.’ Pinelli, working in the early 19th century, often drew on classical literature and mythology. Here, he depicts a scene of mourning inspired by the epic poems of Ossian, which were popular at the time. The Ossian poems presented a romanticized vision of the ancient Scottish Highlands, resonating with the era's interest in nationalism and the sublime power of nature. In this context, Colma’s lament carries a deep emotional weight. She embodies the sorrow and vulnerability of women in a patriarchal society marked by constant warfare and loss. The fallen bodies of Salgar and his brother underscore the tragic consequences of male conflict, while Colma’s grief highlights the personal and emotional toll on those left behind. Pinelli invites us to reflect on the human cost of conflict and the enduring power of female grief.