Animals entering Noah's ark , Large 17th / 18th century Italian Painting

Large 17th / 18th century Italian Painting - Animals entering Noah's ark, attributed to Gaetano de Rosa

Cajetan Roos, also known as Gaetano de Rosa was an Italian landscape painter of German descent born in 1690. Gaetano inherited his passion and skill from his family, his grandfather was the famous Johann Heinrich Roos, who had amongst others, worked at the court of Maurice, Landgrave of Hesse-Kassel. His uncle was Melchior Roos and his father was the celebrated Philipp Peter Roos (also known as Rosa di Tivoli). Gaetano's son, Joseph Roos, later also followed in his ancestors' artistic footsteps. The family specialised in idyllic Italianate landscape paintings, often featuring animals. They developed a signature style, which can be observed in almost all paintings of their dynasty; their own distinct artistic dna.

The story of Noah's ark highlights the profound bond between humans and animals, emphasizing the importance of compassion and stewardship towards all living creatures. In Genesis 6-9, God instructs Noah to gather pairs of every kind of animal to join him on the ark, ensuring their preservation during the flood. Noah's obedience in caring for the animals reflects a deep respect for God's creation and a recognition of the inherent value of every species. As the floodwaters rise, the ark becomes a sanctuary for these creatures, offering them protection and safety amidst the chaos of the deluge. Throughout their time on the ark, Noah and his family diligently tend to the needs of the animals, providing food, water, and shelter. Their commitment to the well-being of every creature onboard serves as a powerful example of our responsibility to be stewards of the earth and its inhabitants. After the flood subsides and the ark comes to rest, Noah releases the animals back into the renewed world, symbolizing God's enduring covenant with all living beings. This story underscores the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of showing kindness and compassion to every creature, great and small, which is beautifully highlighted in our painting. The longer one looks at the present painting, the more one discovers. For example; in the far distance one can spot a unicorn drinking from a stream, whilst to the far right, two peacocks can be seen in a tall three, observing the scenery.

The oil on canvas measures ca. 81 by 61 cms and with its matching Italian frame ca. 108 by 88 cms.

Provenance:
Dutch private collection, since at least the 1950s