Artwork
Four Horsemen
Four Horsemen is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Stefano Della Bella. It dates from 1628 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Four Horsemen is a drawing created by Stefano della Bella in 1628 using pen and brown ink on laid paper. It is one of thousands of drawings produced by the artist, who was known for his etchings and skill in capturing dynamic figures.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts four shadowy figures on horseback, with one holding a long stick and others wearing wide-brimmed hats. The rough, hasty lines convey a sense of movement and energy.
Technique & Style
Della Bella used layered lines to build up shapes, creating a ghostly effect. The varying density of the lines and the faded ink in some areas add to the overall impression of the drawing.
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)
A Judge and Two Gentlemen Lawyers
Sketches of Animals (verso)
The Cavalry Combat
Three Pairs of Beggars with Babies
a) Studies of Figures and a Hand (recto); b) Studies of a Bull (verso)
Sketches of a Gentleman
Pole Holding the Bridle of a Horse while Speaking with Two Other Men
Flagellation of Christ![Magdalene Washing the Feet of Christ with Eight Disciples Looking On [recto], by Donato Creti](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/donato-creti--magdalene-washing-the-feet-of-christ-with-eight-disciples-lo--25318e941cc7fc91-w320.webp)
Magdalene Washing the Feet of Christ with Eight Disciples Looking On [recto]
Study of Four Horsemen
Madonna and Child with Saints Gimignano, John the Baptist, George and Peter Martyr