Design for a Frieze with Acanthus Scrolls with the Theme of Love, Plate 7 from: 'Decorative friezes and foliage' (Ornamenti di fregi e fogliami) by Stefano della Bella

Design for a Frieze with Acanthus Scrolls with the Theme of Love, Plate 7 from: 'Decorative friezes and foliage' (Ornamenti di fregi e fogliami) 1645 - 1650

drawing, ornament, print

drawing

ornament

light pencil work

pen drawing

print

pen illustration

pen sketch

personal sketchbook

female-nude

child

ink drawing experimentation

pen-ink sketch

men

pen work

sketchbook drawing

sketchbook art

male-nude

This etching, "Design for a Frieze with Acanthus Scrolls with the Theme of Love," is a plate from Stefano della Bella’s *Ornamenti di fregi e fogliami*, a series of prints published in the 1640s. The piece features a frieze design with a scrollwork of acanthus leaves surrounding figures representing the theme of love. It is a beautiful example of the Baroquqe style, known for its elaborate ornamentation and dynamic composition. The piece, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies della Bella's mastery in drawing and engraving.