Early Life and Training
SALVATOR ROSA, an Italian Baroque painter, poet, and printmaker, was born in Arenella, Naples, on either June 20 or July 21,
1615. His mother, Giulia Greca Rosa, was a member of one of the Greek families of Sicily. Despite his father's wishes for him to become a lawyer or priest, Salvator showed a preference for the arts and secretly worked with his maternal uncle Paolo Greco to learn about painting.
Artistic Career
SALVATOR ROSA's artistic career was marked by his flamboyant personality and innovative style. He is best known today as an Italian Baroque painter, whose romanticized landscapes and history paintings exerted considerable influence from the 17th century into the early 19th century.
- He continued his apprenticeship with Aniello Falcone, a contemporary of Domenico Gargiulo, in Naples.
- He was advised by Giovanni Lanfranco to relocate to Rome, where he stayed from 1634 until 1636.
- His peopled landscapes, depicting "sublime" nature, were prototypes of the romantic landscape and the very antithesis of the "picturesque" classical views of Claude Lorrain.
Notable Works and Legacy
SALVATOR ROSA's notable works include:
- Apollo and Marsyas, a painting showcasing his unique style, can be found in the Palace of Capodimonte (Naples, Italy).
- His self-portraits, such as those found in the Uffizi Gallery (Florence, Italy), demonstrate his innovative approach to portraiture.
- His influence on Romanticism is evident in his numerous landscapes, which can be found in various museums, including the WahooArt.com collection.
Legacy and Revival
Despite his work falling from favor in the mid-19th century,
SALVATOR ROSA's legacy as an innovative landscape painter has been rediscovered. His influence on the Romantic movement is undeniable, and his works continue to inspire artists to this day.
Conclusion
SALVATOR ROSA, the unorthodox Italian Baroque painter, left an indelible mark on the art world. His innovative style and flamboyant personality continue to inspire artists, making him a fascinating figure in the history of art.
SALVATOR ROSA