The Crucifixion of Polycrates

c. 1662

Salvator Rosa

Associated Names
Salvator Rosa

Artist, Neapolitan, 1615 - 1673

This is a drawing of a scene with a figure on a cross. The drawing shows various figures surrounding a central figure on a cross, set on rocky terrain. The figures around it are engaged in different activities, with some gesturing upwards and others observing. The background features a detailed rocky and wooded landscape. The scene is rendered in a monochromatic style with intricate line work and textural detail.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching and drypoint on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 47.5 x 72.3 cm (18 11/16 x 28 7/16 in.)
    sheet: 54.5 x 78 cm (21 7/16 x 30 11/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1985.21.1

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Theodoli 1992, no. 111, State ii/ii

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Earl Spencer (L.2341a)

Associated Names

Bibliography

1802

  • Bartsch, Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1802-1821: Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna: J.V. Degen, 1802-1821.

1979

  • Wallace, Richard W. The Etchings of Salvator Rosa. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1979.

1992

  • Theodoli, Olimpia. Salvator Rosa, 1615-1673: Acqueforti. Bergamo: Alcon, 1992.

Inscriptions

lower center in plate: Polycrates Sami Tyrannus, opibus et felicitate inclytus, ab Orete Persarum Satrapa captus, ac cruci / affixus docuit, neminem ante obitum mer ito dici posse felicem. / Salvator Rosa Inu. pinx. Scul. (Polycrates, tyrant of Samos, famous for hi s wealth and good fortune, when he was captured by Oretes, Satrap of the Persians, and fastened on a cross, showed that no man can truly be called happy until he is dead.)

Watermarks

Fleur-de-lis in oval w/ B

Wikidata ID

Q74067260

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