1637
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Two Sailors Standing near a Large Bale of Merchandise is a 1637 ink by Stefano Della Bella, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This etching shows two sailors on a dock. One stands with his arms out, wearing a loose shirt and hat, while the other leans on a post, wrapped in a cloak. Behind them, a ship is tied up, and a large bundle lies on the ground near a small dog. The rough, textured lines suggest the artist was experimenting with printing techniques. The scene feels busy but also quiet, like a moment frozen in time. If you like this style, look up etching to see how artists carve images into metal plates.
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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