The Crucifixion of Polycrates of Samos, c. 1662
Salvator Rosaexpand_more
Etching and drypointexpand_more
The Ethel Morrison Van Derlip Fundexpand_more P.74.4
Not on Viewexpand_more
Salvator Rosa's impressively large etching presents the dramatic interpretation of the murder of Polycrates, the sixth-century B.C. tyrant (sole ruler) of the Aegean island of Samos. Notorious for political ambition and piracy during his reign, he consolidated his authority by murdering his two brothers, who shared his power. According to the Greek historian Herodotus, Polycrates was also known for enjoying good luck in life. His luck ran out in 522 B.C., when Oroetes, the Persian satrap (governor) of Sardis, lured Polycrates with false promises of riches and murdered him in cold blood. Though Herodotus's account does not mention a means of death, Rosa's depiction shows the tyrant suffering the indignity of crucifixion, surrounded by crowd of curious onlookers.
The inscription beneath the print reads: "Polycrates, the tyrant of Samos, famous for his wealth and good fortune, when he was captured by Oroetes, Satrap of the Persians, and fastened on a cross showed that no one can truly be said to be happy until he is dead."
Details
- Title
- The Crucifixion of Polycrates of Samos
- Artist Life
- (Naples), 1615–1673
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- P.74.4
- Provenance
- (David Tunick Gallery, New York); sold to MIA, 1974.
- Catalogue Raisonne
- Bartsch10; Wallace 111; T.23
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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