Plate 12: a shepherd sleeping on the ground to right, three horses to left, other horses and various figures to right, the Baths of Diocletian in the background, a round composition, from 'Roman landscapes and ruins' (Paysages et ruines de Rome) 1643 - 1648

This print, made by Stefano della Bella around the mid-17th century, presents us with a seemingly simple scene, yet it’s rich in the nuances of its making. Della Bella used etching, a printmaking technique where lines are incised into a metal plate with acid, allowing for incredibly fine detail and tonal variation. Look closely, and you'll notice the way the lines create depth and texture, from the feathery clouds to the rough stonework of the Baths of Diocletian. But this isn't just a picturesque view; it's also a glimpse into the social fabric of the time. The presence of the shepherd and his animals amidst the ruins speaks to the complex relationship between labor, leisure, and the historical landscape. It invites us to consider the role of human activity in shaping and being shaped by the environment. Della Bella’s mastery of etching elevates the scene to a contemplation on time, labor, and the enduring presence of the past.