Who painted The Founding of Thebes?

The Founding of Thebes was painted by Salvator Rosa in 1645.

Where can I see The Founding of Thebes?

The Founding of Thebes is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

What movement is The Founding of Thebes?

The Founding of Thebes is associated with High Baroque Italian.

Artwork

The Founding of Thebes

Salvator Rosa , 1645

The Founding of Thebes is an oil painting by the High Baroque Italian artist Salvator Rosa. It dates from 1645 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

The Founding of Thebes is a 1645 oil painting by Salvator Rosa, an Italian artist known for his work in multiple mediums.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a dramatic scene from ancient mythology, showing a woman in the sky with a spear and a man on the ground with outstretched arm, amidst fallen figures and a dragon-like creature, suggesting a narrative related to the founding of Thebes.

Technique & Style

The work features characteristic Baroque elements, including a dark, untamed natural setting and the use of chiaroscuro, evident in its muted color palette and detailed textures, which create depth and realism.

History & Provenance

Created in 1645, The Founding of Thebes is now held in the Statens Museum for Kunst, reflecting Rosa's influence across Italian cities like Naples, Rome, and Florence during his active career.

Artist & collection

Artist

Salvator Rosa

Salvator Rosa (1615 – 15 March 1673) is best known today as an Italian Baroque painter, whose romanticised landscapes and history paintings, often set in dark and untamed nature, exerted considerable influence from the 17th century into…