Who painted Galley with Deck Covered with Sails?

Galley with Deck Covered with Sails was painted by Stefano Della Bella in 1654.

Where can I see Galley with Deck Covered with Sails?

Galley with Deck Covered with Sails is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Galley with Deck Covered with Sails?

Galley with Deck Covered with Sails is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Galley with Deck Covered with Sails

Stefano Della Bella , 1654

Galley with Deck Covered with Sails is an ink print by the Baroque artist Stefano Della Bella. It dates from 1654 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Galley with Deck Covered with Sails is an etching on laid paper created by Italian artist Stefano della Bella around 1654. It is a representative work of della Bella's prolific output as a printmaker and draughtsman.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a bustling harbor scene centered on a large galley with three masts, its deck crowded with sails. The surrounding activity includes people unloading cargo and working with ropes and supplies, set against a backdrop of small buildings and boats.

Technique & Style

Della Bella's use of fine lines in the etching creates a sense of depth through light and shadow, rendering the scene with a three-dimensional quality. The detailed rendering of the ship's sails and figures' clothing is balanced by rougher areas that convey movement.

History & Provenance

Stefano della Bella was born in Florence in 1610 and was active until his death in 1664, producing over a thousand prints and thousands of drawings during his career, primarily during the Baroque period.

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.