Soldier Leaning on a Spear 1656 - 1658

Editor: Salvator Rosa's etching, "Soldier Leaning on a Spear," has a certain melancholic feel, wouldn't you agree? All those delicate lines forming his worn clothing and that heavy spear. What's your take on this piece? Curator: Well, consider the material reality of war in Rosa's time. This isn't just a depiction of a soldier, but an engagement with the tools and garments of labor. Etching allowed Rosa to reproduce this image, expanding its reach and potentially commenting on the commodification of military life. Editor: That’s interesting. So, you are saying he's drawing attention to the soldier's material conditions of work? Curator: Precisely. Rosa highlights the labor involved in soldiering. Look at the textures he creates, mimicking the wear and tear on both the spear and the soldier’s clothing. Editor: That makes me see it in a completely new light. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. It’s all about thinking critically about the means of production.