Soldati 

Achille Beltrame painted ‘Soldati’ in Italy, a country in the midst of significant political and social upheaval. Beltrame lived through both World Wars, and his career coincided with the rise of Fascism under Benito Mussolini. In this painting, soldiers on horseback are depicted crossing a river, set against a backdrop of mountains. The somber tones and the determined expressions on the soldiers' faces evoke a sense of duty and resolve amidst adversity. Consider how the soldiers represent the common man caught up in historical events beyond their control. What might their personal stories be? What were their reasons for fighting? The painting offers a glimpse into a specific moment in time, shaped by the broader forces of conflict and nationalism. It serves as a reminder of the human cost of war, and invites us to reflect on the stories of the individuals who lived through these tumultuous periods of history.