A hunting trophy, two wild boar heads above, two deer heads below, a from 'Ornaments or Grotesques' (Ornamenti o Grottesche) 1650 - 1656

Stefano della Bella's etching, "A hunting trophy, two wild boar heads above, two deer heads below, a from 'Ornaments or Grotesques' (Ornamenti o Grottesche)," from 1650-1656, exemplifies the Baroque style's fascination with intricate detail and decorative motifs. This print, part of a larger series, showcases a hunting trophy composed of animal heads and antlers arranged in a symmetrical pattern, suggesting both a celebration of the hunt and the power of nature. The meticulous rendering of the animal's fur and the delicate lines of the antlers create a sense of realism and beauty. The overall composition, with its central column and symmetrical arrangement of animal heads, demonstrates the principles of classical design, further enhancing the intricate composition. This artwork from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, provides insight into della Bella's mastery of etching and the prevailing artistic trends of the 17th century.