Two Turks in Turbans 1657 - 1667

Stefano della Bella created this small etching, "Two Turks in Turbans," sometime in the 17th century. The composition is dominated by two figures, closely cropped, their large turbans immediately drawing the eye. Della Bella's use of line is particularly striking. He employs hatching and cross-hatching to create a sense of depth and texture, especially in the rendering of the turbans and the men’s faces. Look at how the lines vary in thickness and density to suggest the fall of light and shadow. This technique, typical of etching, allows the artist to convey a remarkable amount of detail within a small format. The choice of subject matter reflects a broader European fascination with the "Orient" during this period. However, Della Bella’s approach avoids idealization. Instead, he focuses on the textures and forms, allowing the viewer to contemplate the visual qualities of the scene. This piece serves as an exercise in visual exploration and how an artist can turn cultural curiosity into a formal study.