A child and a satyr child playing with a goat 1652 - 1662

Stefano della Bella made this etching, "A child and a satyr child playing with a goat," in the 17th century. During this time, the ideals of the classical world were in vogue, influencing art, literature, and philosophy. Della Bella himself was employed by the Medici family, who collected classical art and were inspired by it. Here, two children are depicted in a moment of idyllic play. However, this seemingly innocent image is steeped in historical and cultural context. Satyrs were figures from Greek mythology, known for their association with nature, revelry, and often unrestrained sexuality. The inclusion of a satyr child introduces themes of the primitive and the wild into this scene of childhood innocence. What does it mean to depict these two figures as equals? Are they innocently sharing a moment, or is there an implied contrast? The print invites us to consider the historical fascination with classical mythology while subtly exploring the complex interplay between innocence, nature, and desire.