Drie soldaten c. 1656 - 1657

Curator: Let’s spend some time looking at "Three Soldiers," an etching by Salvator Rosa, dating from about 1656-1657. Editor: It’s striking. There’s an immediate sense of drama, isn't there? The central figure, poised, almost shouting and gesturing skyward, really commands your attention. Curator: Indeed. Rosa was active in a time of great political upheaval, and he certainly positioned himself within this shifting world. He actually spent some time in exile from Naples after a brush with some revolutionary groups. Editor: Well, there is such a vital, visceral energy within this depiction of soldiery. I keep circling back to that raised arm, so forceful and definitive, though toward what exactly, is uncertain. It reminds me of classical oratory poses, and this is further emphasized by his dress. The image holds the force of command and the uncertainty of its purpose in its balance. Curator: That's interesting you interpret this as "command." Traditionally these have been viewed not so much as idealized soldier-heroes but rather as ragged mercenaries. Editor: True, but mercenaries are motivated. Rosa chose to create these soldiery this way; with that detail of shadow, posture, and gesture—they communicate a certain shared culture. Note too the somewhat inscrutable men flanking him: each looks out from the group and to the center, engaged though distanced. There is strength in that unit and communication. Curator: You can really read that from just an etching! His mark-making seems so spontaneous. There's an immediacy there that speaks to an artist grappling with real-world turmoil. Editor: It’s precisely that rough handling that lends such symbolic weight. We can sense this kind of culture being tested by that tumult and can reflect on how societies evolve when faced with outside influence. Curator: A compelling observation. It's often said about Rosa that he wished to create works of a different, "higher" class. I guess you are right, this really encapsulates a sort of cultural class. Editor: It feels like Rosa managed to really convey how meaning gets woven into the everyday. It might just be a simple scene with some fellows hanging out, but also more than that. Curator: Yes, his etching resonates across time as a powerful comment on the human drama. Thank you.