Death of Regulus 1662

Curator: Salvator Rosa's "Death of Regulus" is a powerful etching, though undated, it certainly showcases Rosa's characteristic flair for dramatic storytelling. The scene appears chaotic. Editor: It certainly does. The texture created by the etching technique emphasizes the brutality of the scene. I can almost feel the rough wood of that barrel and the anguish on Regulus's face. Curator: Consider the socio-political context: Rosa, working in 17th century Italy, was likely using this historical subject to comment on contemporary issues of power, justice, and betrayal. The material reality is that Rosa had to create this image using copper plate etching. Editor: Absolutely. Regulus's torture reflects the broader cultural anxieties about loyalty, sacrifice, and the consequences of political choices during times of unrest. The violence enacted upon him feels eerily contemporary. Curator: Yes, and the printmaking process allowed Rosa to disseminate this message widely, making it accessible beyond the elite circles who could afford paintings. Editor: Ultimately, this print serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present struggles for human dignity and justice in a world marred by brutality. Curator: I agree. Rosa’s work speaks volumes about the artistic potential of the printed image to engage with the world around it.