Who painted Death on Horseback?

Death on Horseback was painted by Stefano Della Bella in 1648.

Where can I see Death on Horseback?

Death on Horseback is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Death on Horseback?

Death on Horseback is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Death on Horseback?

Museum-quality prints of Death on Horseback are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Death on Horseback

Stefano Della Bella , 1648

Death on Horseback is an ink print by the Baroque artist Stefano Della Bella. It dates from 1648 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Stefano della Bella's 'Death on Horseback' is a print created around 1648 using a combination of etching and engraving techniques. It is one of over 1,000 prints produced during the artist's career, showcasing his skill in graphic art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a chaotic scene: a rider falls from a rearing horse, surrounded by a swarming crowd, with a church and battlefield in the background. The rider's scream and the horse's wild movements convey a sense of frantic disorder, evoking a nightmarish atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Della Bella employed sharp lines in 'Death on Horseback' to capture the dynamic and unstable nature of the scene. The etching and engraving techniques used allow for dramatic contrasts, contributing to the overall sense of chaos and turmoil.

History & Provenance

The print is part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington, reflecting its significance within della Bella's oeuvre and the broader context of 17th-century graphic art.

Death on Horseback Chasing a Flying Knight, Sebastiaen Vrancx

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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.