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Allegory of the Apennines from the Medici Villa in Pratolino

Stefano della Bella

  • Allegory of the Apennines from the Medici Villa in Pratolino 2
Basic information
ID
Г-IV-990
Author
Stefano della Bella
Name
Allegory of the Apennines from the Medici Villa in Pratolino
Technique
etching
Material
paper
Dimensions (height x width, cm)
25.3 x 38.5
Additionally
Type
graphic art
Provenance
Lviv Historical Museum
Information about author
Author
Stefano della Bella
Artist's lifetime
1610–1644
Country
Italy
Biography
Stefano della Bella was one of the most prolific Italian engravers and draftsmen of the 17th century. The artist created thousands of unique graphic works that accurately depicted the events of his time, such as theatrical performances of the Florentine nobility, Thirty Years' War conflicts, and ordinary life on the streets of Rome and Paris. The engraver was born in Florence in 1610. Due to the premature death of his father, the young man was compelled to study as a jeweller. Still, he quickly grew interested in drawing, imitating the technique of the prominent French graphic artist Jacques Callot. At this time, he gained the patronage of the Medici family, who continued to favour the artist throughout his life. Supported by the Medici, della Bella went to Rome in 1633, where he received important commissions almost immediately. Numerous sketches of park ensembles, villas, palaces and ancient ruins were also created there, which he later used for his engravings. At the request of the Medici family, he was obliged to return to Florence in 1637. In Rome, della Bella met the French graphic artists Henriet Israel and Francois L'Anglois, thanks to whom he moved to Paris in 1639. The engraver could quickly establish cooperation with the three most important Parisian publishers: Pierre Mariette, Henriet Israel, and Francois L'Anglois. In Paris, the artist became well-known by creating various etchings, which collectors much sought after. He returned to Florence in 1650, where he resided until he died in 1664. During this period, Stefano della Bella diversified his favourite subjects, producing an excellent series of hunting scenes, impressive landscapes with Roman ruins, and detailed depictions of equestrians.
Object description
The engraving shows an artificial waterfall with a monumental statue against a background of trees. In the foreground, men and women are walking and looking around. The engraving was made for a book printed in a limited edition at the request of Duke Ferdinand. It described the Medici villa at Pratolino, including its fountains, grottoes, and statues. The famous park composition "Allegory of the Apennines" by the sculptor Giambologna is described in detail. The Colossus of the Apennines is a stone statue about 11 metres high.
Inscriptions
At the bottom right: "S.D. Bella"
Legal regulation
Borys Voznytskyi Lviv National Art Gallery

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