Artwork
Title Page for "Ornamenti di fregi e fogliani"
Title Page for "Ornamenti di fregi e fogliani" 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
This etching, created by Stefano della Bella around 1648, serves as the title page for *Ornamenti di fregi e fogliani*, a collection of decorative motifs. Characterized by a chaotic underwater scene, the work showcases della Bella's mastery of etching.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts an underwater struggle between two winged figures and a massive stone slab inscribed with the title of the collection. Surrounding them are various sea creatures and birds above the turbulent water, symbolizing the dynamic interplay between artistic expression and the natural world.
Technique & Style
Della Bella employed sharp, precise lines to convey movement and intricate detail, demonstrating the expressive capabilities of etching. This technique allowed for the vivid capture of the scene's energy and the textures of the natural and architectural elements.
History & Provenance
Created in Florence circa 1648, this etching is part of della Bella's extensive oeuvre of over 1,000 etchings, showcasing his prolific career as a printmaker and draughtsman.
Context
As a title page, it introduces a compilation of decorative designs (*Ornamenti di fregi e fogliani*), reflecting the Baroque interest in ornamental motifs for artistic and possibly architectural applications.
Legacy
While the specific impact of this title page on della Bella's legacy is nuanced, it contributes to his recognized influence on the development of etching techniques and the dissemination of Baroque decorative ideals through printmaking.
Artist & collection
Artist
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.
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Title Page
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The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1743: Venus Genetrix
The Triumph of Galatea
Dolphins and Tritons
Cartouche
Book of Fountains: No. 2
The Toilet of Thetis
The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1742: The Contest of Neptune and Minerva
Collection of Various Caprices and New Designs of Cartouches and Ornaments: No 17
Ornamental Panel Surmounted by Two Putti and a Vase
Drawing of a fountain