Artwork
Francesco de Medici, Prince of Tuscany
Francesco de Medici, Prince of Tuscany 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
This etching on laid paper is a portrait of Francesco de Medici, Prince of Tuscany, created by Stefano della Bella in 1637. The print is a restrike, pulled from the original plate at a later date.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Francesco de Medici in an oval frame, wearing a fur-lined robe and ruffled collar. The inscription 'Francesco Ex Principibus Etruria' below confirms his title. The surrounding decorative elements, including swirling lines and figures holding the frame, add to the portrait's grandeur.
Technique & Style
Della Bella employed fine lines and detailed scrollwork to create texture and depth in the portrait. The etching technique allowed for intricate rendering of the subject's curly hair and fabric.
History & Provenance
Stefano della Bella, a prolific Florentine draughtsman and printmaker, produced this work during his career, which spanned Florence and other parts of Italy from 1610 to 1664. He was known for his diverse subjects and produced over a thousand etchings.
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.
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Frederick Christian of Denmark
Charles I, King of England
Cosimo II, Grand Duke of Tuscany
James I, King of England
Louis XIII of France
Louis XV
Charles I as Prince of Wales
Walter Leslie (Count Leslie)
Frederick V, Elector Palatine, King of Bohemia
Cardinal Jules Mazarin
Emperor Ferdinand III
Francesco de' Medici