Artwork
Child Holding a Puppy
Child Holding a Puppy is an ink print by the Baroque artist Stefano Della Bella. It dates from 1637 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Child Holding a Puppy is an etching on laid paper, created by Italian artist Stefano della Bella in 1637. This restrike print exemplifies the artist's ability to capture intimate, everyday scenes through precise linework.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts a serene courtyard scene where a central child, dressed in a long-sleeved shirt and shorts with curly hair, tenderly holds a puppy. Surrounding children and dogs engage in playful activities, conveying a sense of community and joy.
Technique & Style
Della Bella's etching technique imbues the scene with texture and depth. Characteristic of his style, the delicate yet expressive lines define the figures and setting, enhancing the overall warmth of the moment captured.
History & Provenance
Part of della Bella's extensive oeuvre of over 1,000 prints, this work represents his versatility across various subjects. As a restrike, it was reprinted from the original plate, preserving the artist's initial design.
Context
Created in 1637, the piece reflects della Bella's Florentine background and his influence within 17th-century Italian printmaking. The everyday subject matter aligns with the genre works popular during this period.
Legacy
Child Holding a Puppy contributes to della Bella's legacy as a prolific and skilled printmaker, known for his detailed and engaging depictions of daily life, which continue to offer insights into 17th-century Italian culture.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Stefano della Bella (18 May 1610 – 12 July 1664) was an Italian draughtsman and printmaker known for etchings of a great variety of subjects, including military and court scenes, landscapes, and lively genre scenes.
![The Flight into Egypt [verso], by Stefano Della Bella](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/stefano-della-bella--the-flight-into-egypt-verso--3a100db72e6d25e3-w320.webp)
