Scene with Two Soldiers; verso: Man Kneeling by a Stream (counterproof) c. 17th century

Editor: This is Salvator Rosa's "Scene with Two Soldiers," a drawing from the 17th century. It feels very raw and immediate. What do you see in its display of the soldiers? Curator: Rosa was deeply critical of the art establishment of his time and embraced unconventional subjects. How do you think this drawing reflects his anti-establishment stance and the social dynamics of the era? Editor: I suppose depicting soldiers stripped of heroic grandeur goes against the grain. Curator: Exactly. Rosa challenged idealized portrayals, forcing the viewer to confront the harsh realities of military life and the social conditions that fueled it. It's a potent statement through imagery. Editor: I hadn't considered that. Thanks!