364 - Salvator Rosa (1615–1673) – The Death of Marcus Atilius Regulus, c. 1662

Salvator Rosa (1615–1673) – The Death of Marcus Atilius Regulus, c. 1662 Description: Salvator Rosa (1615–1673) – The Death of Marcus Atilius Regulus, c. 1662. The Roman consul Marcus Atilius Regulus subjected to a horrific death by the Carthaginians, his naked body being forced into a wooden barrel studded with sharp spikes, surrounded by soldiers and executioners, with an extensive architectural setting beyond. One of Salvator Rosa's largest and most ambitious etchings, based on his own painted composition and displaying the dramatic violence and theatrical intensity characteristic of his mature work. Etching, 465 x 720 mm, lettered with a dedication to Rosa's friend Giovanni Battista Ricciardi and a Latin description of the subject, and signed 'Salvator Rosa Inv. pinx. scul.' Executed circa 1661–1663. The monumental scale and complex multi-figure composition make this one of the major achievements of Rosa's graphic oeuvre. References: Bartsch XX.271.9; Wallace 110, state II. Dimensions: 46,50 x 72,00 cm Condition: Excellent impression on thick laid paper, with the full plate border and good margins, watermarked with a French lily in a double circle. A flattened middle fold with mounting strip on the backside and light foxing, mainly confined to the margins. Overall, and especially considering the exceptionally large size of the print, in very good to excellent condition. Literature: Bartsch XX.271.9; Wallace 110, state II. Medium: Engraving Date: 1661-1663