Pole Holding the Bridle of a Horse while Speaking with Two Other Men

Pole Holding the Bridle of a Horse while Speaking with Two Other Men

Stefano Della Bella

1637

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows three men in a quiet moment. One holds a horse’s bridle, his back turned, while the other two face him. Their clothes look heavy and formal, with big hats and layered fabrics. The lines are loose and quick, like a rough draft. The horse isn’t shown—just the bridle, suggesting they’re talking about it. The artist used sharp lines to show folds in the fabric and the way the men stand. Next, look up etching to see how this print was made.

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