Ornamental Frieze with Cupid and Psyche
1648
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1648
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This etching shows a row of ornate decorations with a tiny Cupid and Psyche scene tucked inside. The lines are sharp yet delicate, like lace drawn in metal. It’s a small piece but packed with tiny details—swirls, leaves, and a hint of a myth under all the flourish. Stefano Della Bella made many such prints. These were often used to decorate books or walls back then. This one feels playful, like a hidden joke in the design. The next step? Look up etching on the National Gallery of Art, Washington’s site.
![The Flight into Egypt [verso]](https://pub-3a17a9933ad74fb28aa30fa758592f23.r2.dev/artworks/3a100db72e6d25e3/thumb.webp)
