Young Hannibal Swears Enmity to Rome

What it is

This 1731 oil painting by Giovanni Antonio Pellegrini illustrates a famous story recorded by the ancient Roman historian Livy. It shows Hannibal's father, Hamilcar, leading the boy Hannibal to an altar, where he swore to become an enemy of Rome.

Why it matters

Though painted nearly 2,000 years after the events, this work shows how Hannibal's legend was retold and visualized long after his death. The oath story, passed down through Livy's writing, became central to how later generations understood Hannibal's lifelong hostility toward Rome.

Look closer

• What does the painting choose to emphasize—faith, family, or war?
• How does the artist use clothing and gesture to show solemnity?
• Since this scene comes from a written account, what might the artist have added from imagination?