A Coastal Scene
- Artist: Salvator Rosa
- Date: probably 18th century
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Museum: The National Gallery
- Collection record: The National Gallery website
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About this artwork
This is "A Coastal Scene" painted in the Italian north. The artist's style is reminiscent of Salvator Rosa, who was active during the eighteenth century. Look at the rock to the right of the figures - you'll notice a prominent 'SR' monogram. This is thought to be a ruse to make potential buyers believe that this painting is an original Rosa.
We're looking down a gentle incline towards a calm lake, with small buildings scattered around it, dwarfed by the steeply sloped mountain behind. The peasants and cattle in the foreground seem to be taking a break from their daily activities, gathered at the water's edge.
The light in this painting is characteristic of Italianate style, golden and warm. But let's be honest - the landscape itself is likely fictitious.
See it in person
A Coastal Scene hangs in The National Gallery on Trafalgar Square, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
