The artwork, titled “Hannibal looks at the head of Hasdrubal,” is an oil painting on canvas created by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo around 1725 to 1730. This piece is a notable example of the Rococo art movement and falls within the genre of history painting. It is presently housed in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, Austria.
The artwork dramatically captures a poignant historical moment, with Hannibal, the Carthaginian military commander, depicted confronting the decapitated head of his brother, Hasdrubal. The composition is rife with emotional intensity and dramatic gestures, characteristic of Tiepolo’s style. Hannibal is portrayed in classical armor, bearing a white cloak draped over his shoulder, symbolizing both authority and the gravity of the scene. In the background, contrasting dark and light tones create a sense of depth and highlight the tumultuous sky, enhancing the tension of the moment. The artist’s adept use of light and shadow frames Hannibal’s expressive face as he reacts to the tragic sight, embodying both his grief and resolve.
