Soldaat op de rug gezien c. 1656 - 1657

Salvator Rosa made this etching, "Soldier Seen from the Back," in Italy during the 17th century. Soldiers and mercenaries were a common sight in the Italian states, often employed by wealthy families. Rosa’s depiction of the soldier, standing with his back to us, forces us to consider the social position of these armed men. His stance could be interpreted in several ways: is he guarding the landscape, or is he himself an outcast? During Rosa's time, the Italian states were in constant conflict, and soldiers were often seen as both necessary and disruptive. Rosa, known for his independent spirit, may have been commenting on their ambiguous role in society. Historians can delve into period documents, military records, and social commentaries to better understand the multifaceted image of the soldier in 17th-century Italy. Such research enriches our understanding of how art reflects and responds to the social realities of its time.