A galley embarking at center, seen from behind, the stern of another galley to right under a fire, eight men in a rowboat to left, from 'Varie figure' 1640 - 1650

Stefano della Bella's etching, *A galley embarking at center, seen from behind, the stern of another galley to right under a fire, eight men in a rowboat to left, from 'Varie figure'*, depicts a scene of bustling activity on the water. The artist's signature, "Stef. della Bella Florentinus fecit," appears on the lower left corner, along with the inscription "Carretre grand. cum Pru. Regis". Della Bella's detailed etching showcases the stern of a galley, elaborately decorated with carved figures, as it embarks from the shore. The artist’s skill is apparent in the depiction of the crew and the rowboat, contributing to a dynamic scene of 17th century life. This work is one of several that Della Bella made on the theme of galleys, and his interest in depicting maritime scenes likely stemmed from his artistic background in Florence, a city that had a rich history of shipbuilding and trade. The etching, part of the "Varie figure" series, showcases Della Bella's talent for capturing the details of naval life in the mid-17th century.