Plate 2: three fragments of friezes; on top, a grotesque head of a man, a skull of a ram at bottom left and a chimera at bottom right, from 'Friezes, foliage, and grotesques' (Frises, feuillages et grotesques) 1638 - 1643

This etching, "Plate 2: three fragments of friezes" from "Friezes, foliage, and grotesques" (Frises, feuillages et grotesques) by Stefano della Bella, was created between 1638 and 1643. It features a series of three decorative motifs that would have been used in a variety of design applications such as architecture, furniture, and textiles. Della Bella was an accomplished printmaker of the Baroque period who is known for his detailed and elegant compositions. His use of intricate scrollwork and grotesque figures is characteristic of the period’s fascination with fantastical imagery. This print is a perfect example of the innovative and imaginative designs that flourished in the 17th century.