Salvator Rosa (naples, 20 July 1615 – Rome, 15 March 1673) Warrior With Mace And Shield Etching

Salvator Rosa (Naples, 20 July 1615 – Rome, 15 March 1673)

Warrior with Mace and Shield

Etching / engraving, circa 1650–1652

Second state (final)

Plate: 14 × 9.5 cm – Sheet: approx. 15.2 × 10.8 cm

Original etching signed in the plate “S.R.”, part of the Figurine series created by Salvator Rosa during his Florentine period and the early years in Rome. The figure of a standing warrior holding a mace and a shield is drawn with a firm, incisive line, conveying a sense of discipline and energy rather than idealized heroism.

This plate belongs to the group of etchings executed for the circle of writers and collectors Rosa frequented in Florence, including Carlo Rubbi and Lorenzo Lippi, members of the Accademia dei Percossi. Within this cultured and independent environment, the artist developed a restrained and reflective graphic language, in which line serves as a vehicle for inner freedom and moral meditation.

The sheet is printed on 17th-century Italian laid paper, with chain lines approximately 3.2 cm apart, dense fibres, and a warm ivory tone. The impression is crisp and even, showing no plate wear—evidence of an early printing. Later 18th-century impressions, by contrast, appear lighter and thinner, with worn lines and paler ink.

A well-preserved example, neatly trimmed to the platemark, with light natural toning of the paper.