Polish horseman with a bow and arrow, seen from behind with his horse facing right, a circular composition, from "Figures on Horseback" (Cavaliers nègres, polonais et hongrois) 1646 - 1656

Stefano della Bella made this print of a Polish horseman with bow and arrow around the 1640s, as part of a series depicting cavaliers from different nations. It's fascinating to see how della Bella, an Italian artist, represents Polish identity through the lens of horsemanship and military prowess. This image encapsulates the early modern period's fascination with cultural types and the way people constructed notions of national identity. Poland at this time was known for its strong cavalry. Della Bella probably had access to visual sources depicting Polish military figures. The print may reflect both firsthand observation and existing European stereotypes about Poland. The print was published in Paris, which was a center of printmaking and book publishing in the 17th century, indicating that it was intended for widespread circulation. Understanding this print requires examining period sources such as military manuals, travel accounts, and costume books. By researching these resources, we can better understand the print in its cultural context.