Title
Creation Date
2014
Preview
Medium
digital tools on paper
Description
Dimensions: 28.35" x 19.65"
This work is part of the series entitled Hannibal 218 B.C.
Rights
© Scott Russell Taylor, 2014.
Exhibit Images
Series Title: Hannibal 218 B.C.
Keywords
warriors, mountains, ancient, weather, dangerous, travel
Artist Statement
Hannibal Barca's trek across the Alps in 218 B.C. is an example of man doing what was thought to be unthinkable at the time. While all but one (or possibly none) of his 37 war elephants were able to survive the perilous crossing, these animals would become symbols of his great endeavor for years to come. Within this event exists one of the most classic forms of conflict in narrative. That being "Man vs. Nature".
Even today I think of an elephant crossing these snowy mountains as being a fantastical occurrence of note. It embodies the ambitions and determination of men who so desired to strike at the Roman Empire at whatever the cost. Through illustration this journey's perils and struggle can take on physical form, and go beyond just abstract dates in the history books. Without photo or video of such events their look and feel relies on the writings of historians and artist's interpretations. Here are three such interpretations acting as windows through history into time long since passed.