Marteldood van Marcus Atilius Regulus in ton met spijkers 1819

Bartolomeo Pinelli, an Italian artist, created this etching titled 'Martyrdom of Marcus Atilius Regulus in a barrel of nails,' sometime between the late 18th and early 19th century. Pinelli situates us in a brutal scene drawn from Roman history. Regulus, a Roman general, is depicted facing a horrific execution at the hands of the Carthaginians. The legend recounts that Regulus was captured, then sent to Rome to negotiate peace. However, he urged the Roman senate to continue the war, and upon returning to Carthage, he was tortured to death. This work isn't merely a depiction of historical events; it reflects the period’s fascination with classical virtues and heroic sacrifice. Yet, we cannot ignore the violence inherent in this depiction. The image raises complex questions about the glorification of violence, especially when framed within narratives of national pride. It invites us to reflect on the human cost of conflict.