Scenes of Witchcraft, Day c. 1645 - 1649

Salvator Rosa's "Scenes of Witchcraft, Day" (c. 1645-1649) depicts a scene of dark magic and superstition. A haggard, naked witch rides a grotesque creature with an owl's head, wielding a broom and holding a skull. The witch's dark magic is emphasized by the dead creatures and skulls at her feet. The painting's dramatic composition, vivid colors, and detailed depictions of grotesque creatures create a sense of unease and fear, reflecting the anxieties and fears of the time. It exemplifies Rosa's fascination with the darker side of human nature and his ability to depict the macabre and the grotesque with chilling realism.