a Warrior 1657

Salvator Rosa created this etching of "A Warrior" in 17th century Italy. Note the muscular figure, back turned, as if he is about to launch himself off the stone block. The artist captures a moment of coiled tension, a drama heightened by the presence of other helmeted men to the left of the image. Rosa was active in Florence and Rome, and is best known for his Baroque paintings of battles, landscapes and scenes of witchcraft. His work was well known for its wild and unconventional nature, and through paintings, drawings and prints, he expressed his Romantic sensibilities in the portrayal of brigands, soldiers, and rebels. Art historians explore Rosa’s vision of the anti-hero as a challenge to the prevailing artistic conventions of his time. We look to understand how his imagery might reflect the socio-political climate of 17th century Italy. The depiction of military figures can reveal much about the prevailing attitudes toward conflict, power, and authority.