Horatius Cocles verdedigt zich op de brug
Pieter Tanjé
1737
Medium
etching
Dimensions
247; 432
About this artwork
Gift of M. Hudig
Art Historical Context
In the etching *Horatius Cocles verded zich op de brug* (1737), Dutch artist Pieter Tanjé captures a timeless tale of Roman heroism. The title translates to "Horatius Coc Defends Himself on the Bridge," depicting the legendary warrior single-handedly holding off Etruscan invaders at Rome's Pons Sublicius 508 BCE. According to ancient historian Livy, Cocles' brave stand allowed his comrades to destroy the bridge behind him, saving the city from invasion. This dramatic scene, rendered in intricate lines, embodies virtues of courage and self-sacrifice that resonated in 18th-century Europe. Tanjé...