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Festoon with Medici Coat of Arms, by Stefano Della Bella, ink, 1648

Festoon with Medici Coat of Arms

Stefano Della Bella

1648

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

Festoon with Medici Coat of Arms is a 1648 ink by Stefano Della Bella, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Stefano Della Bella
When & what style?
1648 · Baroque
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This image shows a wild, swirling scene of animals, plants, and a coat of arms. In the center, a shield with a crown sits between two lions—one with its mouth open, the other holding a wreath. Around them, monkeys, birds, and curly vines tangle together in chaotic motion. The whole thing looks like it’s wrapped in a decorative band, almost like a banner. The coat of arms belongs to the Medici family, a powerful Italian dynasty. The artist used sharp lines and deep shadows to make everything look dramatic and alive. If you like this style, look up etching to see how artists create detailed prints like this.

About the artist

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.

See the richer artist page

More by Stefano Della Bella

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