Artwork

Two Children Embracing [upper half]; Seated Ecclesiast [lower half]

Two Children Embracing [upper half]; Seated Ecclesiast [lower half] 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 print combines two etchings on a single sheet of laid paper, created by Stefano della Bella in 1637. It showcases the artist's versatility in producing a wide range of subjects through etching.

Subject & Meaning

The print features two distinct scenes: the upper half depicts two children embracing, while the lower half shows a seated ecclesiast. The contrast between the informal, playful top scene and the more formal, posed bottom scene is notable.

Technique & Style

The etchings demonstrate della Bella's skill in using fine lines and shading to create detailed, expressive images. The technique of etching allowed for the production of intricate and nuanced works, reflecting della Bella's proficiency as a draughtsman and printmaker.

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.