Artwork

River Gods

River Gods, by Salvator Rosa, 1664
River Gods, by Salvator Rosa, 1664

River Gods is a print by the Baroque artist Salvator Rosa. It dates from 1664 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

River Gods is a print created by Salvator Rosa around 1664. It is a characteristic example of the artist's work, showcasing his distinctive style.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a group of wild, unkempt figures entwined with vegetation and water, conveying a sense of untamed nature. The figures' twisted limbs and wild hair contribute to the overall impression of ruggedness.

Technique & Style

The artist employed thick, scratchy lines to achieve a textured effect, giving the figures a rough, organic appearance. The use of swirling lines in the background creates a sense of dynamic movement, capturing the energy of wind or rushing water.

History & Provenance

Salvator Rosa, an Italian artist active in Naples, Rome, and Florence, produced River Gods during the Baroque period. The print is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Salvator Rosa

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…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.