Artwork

Caprices: Three Standing Soldiers

Caprices:  Three Standing Soldiers, by Stefano Della Bella, 1642
Caprices:  Three Standing Soldiers, by Stefano Della Bella, 1642

Caprices: Three Standing Soldiers is a print by the Baroque artist Stefano Della Bella. It dates from 1642 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Stefano della Bella's print 'Caprices: Three Standing Soldiers' dates to around 1642. It is one of over a thousand prints he produced during his career as a draughtsman and printmaker from Florence.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts three soldiers in 17th-century attire, each with a distinct pose and expression. The figures are the primary focus, set against a minimal background that highlights their clothing, accessories, and postures.

Technique & Style

Della Bella's skill in etching is evident in the intricate details of the soldiers' clothing and the capture of their personalities through posture and facial expression. The work showcases his exploration of figures and composition in printmaking.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Stefano Della Bella

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.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.