Who painted Ostrich Hunt?

Ostrich Hunt was painted by Stefano Della Bella in 1637.

Where can I see Ostrich Hunt?

Ostrich Hunt is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Ostrich Hunt?

Ostrich Hunt is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Ostrich Hunt?

Museum-quality prints of Ostrich Hunt are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Ostrich Hunt

Stefano Della Bella , 1637

Ostrich Hunt 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

Ostrich Hunt is an etching on laid paper created by Stefano della Bella in 1637. This print exemplifies the artist's versatility, which spanned military, court, and everyday scenes across over 1,000 works.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a dynamic scene of an ostrich being chased by a horseman and two dogs, set against a hilly, wooded landscape with a cloudy sky. The ostrich, in full motion to the right, dominates the composition.

Technique & Style

Della Bella's etching technique effectively captures the ostrich's movement and the hunt's energy. Varied line work and shading achieve depth and texture, characteristic of Baroque's dramatic lighting effects.

History & Provenance

Originally etched in 1637, this piece is a restrike, indicating it was printed from the original plate after the initial run. Stefano della Bella's prolific career as a Florentine draughtsman and printmaker is highlighted by this work.

Context

As a Baroque piece, Ostrich Hunt reflects the era's emphasis on movement and dramatic expression. Della Bella's choice of subject also showcases the period's interest in exoticism and dynamic genre scenes.

Legacy

While specific impact of Ostrich Hunt on subsequent art is not detailed, it contributes to della Bella's reputation for technical skill and thematic diversity, influencing later printmakers and Baroque artists.

Ostrich and Crowned Crane, Adriaen Collaert

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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.