The Departure of Marcus Attilius Regulus for Carthage

Discussion

FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

In David’s powerful study, the defeated Roman general Marcus Atilius Regulus, refusing the entreaties of his wife, insists on being sent back to Carthage to be executed. The relief-like drawing, seemingly carved from stone, boldly combines a sober setting and technique (black ink, white wash) with extreme theatricality, like a scene performed onstage.

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