Mercure c. 17th century

"Mercure," an etching by Stefano della Bella, depicts the Roman god Mercury, identifiable by his winged helmet, staff with serpents, and winged sandals. The drawing is characterized by delicate lines and an emphasis on anatomical detail, typical of della Bella’s work. The small scale of this print, created around the 17th century, emphasizes the intimate quality of the subject matter, which often depicted classical figures and scenes. The work showcases the artist's expertise in capturing movement and conveying the dynamism of the figure, making it a significant example of the Italian Baroque style.