Thales Causing the River to Flow on Both Sides of the Lydian Army by Salvator Rosa. Classical figures in armor and historical dress gather on a rocky riverbank beneath a dramatic, clouded sky.

Thales Causing the River to Flow on Both Sides of the Lydian Army

Salvator Rosa

1663 · Oil Paint, Canvas

A dramatic Baroque masterpiece depicting an episode from Greek history amidst a rugged, atmospheric landscape.

$129

For the selected configuration

From $129

1 frame size

Frame size
Frame color
Mount
Paper type
Glaze

Made to order in ~2 business days · Free U.S. standard shipping (typically 5–8 business days after dispatch)

Where it works

A weightier piece with lively force in a warmer tonal register — supports a polished room with depth.

Often works in
Library · Study · Living Room
Placement
Reads best above substantial furniture or an open wall
Walls
Best where a lighter wall gives it room to show
Color notes
Charcoal black, Deep burgundy, Rich brown

About the piece

Created by the Italian Baroque master Salvator Rosa in 1663, this work illustrates the philosopher Thales of Miletus rerouting a river to facilitate the crossing of the Lydian army. The scene exemplifies Rosa's signature 'sublime' style, characterized by jagged rocks, expressive figures in classical armor, and a powerful interplay of light and shadow across a tumultuous sky.

More like this

King Croesus and His Son

Contains disturbing content

Dark Academia

King Croesus and His Son

Salvator Rosa

A dramatic 17th-century scene of historical intervention, masterfully rendered with intense shadow and light.

Men Bathing

Contains nudity

Moody Landscapes

Men Bathing

Gerbrand van den Eeckhout

A masterful 17th-century landscape featuring figures bathing in a dramatic, light-filled environment.

The Battle of Actium, 31 BC

Contains disturbing content

Coastal Classics

The Battle of Actium, 31 BC

Laureys a Castro

A grandiose maritime scene capturing the dramatic energy of the ancient world's most famous naval conflict.

The Night (Die Nacht)

Contains disturbing content

Coastal Classics

The Night (Die Nacht)

Unknown Artist

A powerful 17th-century scene of a nighttime naval skirmish, defined by striking chiaroscuro and atmospheric drama.