The artwork titled “Et in Arcadia Ego” by the Baroque artist Guercino, created in 1622 with oil on canvas, is a religious painting housed in the National Gallery of Ancient Art (GNAA) in Rome, Italy. The dimensions of the artwork are 91 by 81 cm.
The artwork depicts a somber scene featuring two shepherd-like figures who appear to be contemplating the presence of a human skull set in a serene, yet shadowy, landscape. The phrase “Et in Arcadia Ego” inscribed near the skull translates to “Even in Arcadia, there am I,” which is often interpreted as a memento mori, reminding viewers of the inevitability of death even in idyllic settings. Guercino employs a dramatic use of light and shadow, characteristic of the Baroque style, enhancing the emotional intensity of the scene. The figures’ expressions and postures convey deep reflection, emphasizing the painting’s contemplative and philosophical themes.
