Tobie et l'ange

c. 1633

Wanderings through Apulia and Calabria, Captivity among Bandits

At eighteen he set out on a journey through Apulia and Calabria, fell into the hands of local bandits, and lived among them for a time, studying their types and ways.

1634–1636

First Roman Period on Lanfranco's Advice

Giovanni Lanfranco, who had noticed his works in Falcone's studio, advised him to move to Rome, where Rosa remained from 1634 to 1636.

1638

Move to Rome under the Protection of Cardinal Brancaccio

He settled in Rome under the patronage of the influential Cardinal Francesco Maria Brancaccio, a lover of the arts and theater who was close to the Barberini family.

1640

Meeting Lucrezia Paolini

In Florence he met Lucrezia Paolini, who had been abandoned by her husband; she became his lifelong companion and was probably the model for the allegory of Music (c. 1641).

1640–1649

Florentine Period at the Medici Court

After scandalous quarrels with Bernini and his failure to gain admission to the Accademia di San Luca, he moved to Florence at the invitation of Giovanni Carlo de' Medici, where he remained until 1649.

1647

Participation in Masaniello's Revolt

According to a widespread account, he took part in the popular uprising led by Masaniello in Naples; he painted a portrait of Masaniello and expressed sympathy for the revolt in one of his satires.