Who painted Child Wearing a Mask?

Child Wearing a Mask was painted by Stefano Della Bella in 1637.

Where can I see Child Wearing a Mask?

Child Wearing a Mask is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Child Wearing a Mask?

Child Wearing a Mask is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Child Wearing a Mask

Stefano Della Bella , 1637

Child Wearing a Mask 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 Wearing a Mask is an etching on laid paper created by Stefano della Bella in 1637. It is one of over a thousand etchings produced during his career as a Florentine draughtsman and printmaker.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a child wearing a bird-like mask with a long beak and feathers, suggesting a playful or theatrical theme. The child's eyes are visible above the mask, adding to the enigmatic nature of the scene.

Technique & Style

The work showcases della Bella's skill in printmaking, with the use of etching and drypoint techniques to achieve texture and detail. The drypoint method is evident in the scratchy lines and tiny dots near the child's hand, created by scratching directly into the metal plate.

Artist & collection

Artist

Stefano Della Bella

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.