Who painted The Four Elements: Terra?

The Four Elements: Terra was painted by Stefano Della Bella in 1648.

Where can I see The Four Elements: Terra?

The Four Elements: Terra is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Four Elements: Terra?

The Four Elements: Terra is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

The Four Elements: Terra

Stefano Della Bella , 1648

The Four Elements: Terra is a print by the Baroque artist Stefano Della Bella. It dates from 1648 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1977.100.1
Credit line: Gift of The Print Club of Cleveland

About this work

Overview

The Four Elements: Terra, a print by Florentine artist Stefano della Bella, dates to circa 1648. It is one of a series exploring the elemental themes of Fire, Water, Air, and Earth.

Subject & Meaning

Depicting Earth, the print features a rocky mountain landscape with a man digging with a shovel, surrounded by other figures holding various tools, symbolizing human interaction with the terrestrial element.

Technique & Style

Characteristic of della Bella's etching style, the work incorporates lively details, distinguishing it from earlier prints he copied, which served as inspirations.

History & Provenance

Part of della Bella's extensive oeuvre of over 1,000 prints, The Four Elements: Terra is currently housed in the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

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.