Neptune, from 'Game of Mythology' (Jeu de la Mythologie) 1644

Stefano della Bella created this print of Neptune as part of ‘Game of Mythology’ using etching. The composition is a flurry of diagonal lines and swirling forms, bringing to life the drama of the sea. Neptune commands a chariot pulled by sea horses amidst turbulent waves. Notice how della Bella uses line to create texture and movement. The dense cross-hatching not only defines form but also evokes a sense of depth and chaos, characteristic of Baroque aesthetics. Neptune, identified by his crown and trident, is not just a figure but a symbol of raw, untamed power. The etching technique allows for a remarkable level of detail, capturing the muscular tension of the sea horses and the frothing water. The print invites us to consider how mythological figures embody the forces of nature and the human imagination, reflecting enduring themes of power, chaos, and control.