Jeronim De Rada

National Gallery of Arts, Albania

Year: 1982
Technique: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 121 × 142.5 cm
Artist: Agim Zajmi

This painting portrays Jeronim De Rada, a key figure of Arbëresh culture, poet, folklorist, and advocate of the Albanian language. Born within Albanian communities in Italy, he dedicated his life to cultural preservation.

He is shown standing on rocky shores facing the Adriatic Sea, a symbolic link to Albania. The wind animates the landscape, the restless sea, and his dark coat, enhancing the expressive power of the composition.

Painted in oil on canvas with free and dynamic brushstrokes, the work reflects both the challenges of cultural struggle and the hope for a brighter future.