Two eagles, from 'Eagles' (Les aigles) 1646 - 1656

Stefano della Bella created this print called 'Two Eagles' as part of his series "Eagles" in the 17th century using etching. During this time, depictions of animals were more than just natural studies; they were often imbued with symbolic meanings tied to power, status, and morality. Consider the cultural context of the eagle. Throughout history, it's been a potent symbol of authority and nobility, frequently associated with emperors and military prowess. Della Bella’s choice to portray eagles taps into this rich symbolism. What might it have meant to viewers in the 1600s? Were they prompted to reflect on the nature of leadership, the strength of empires, or perhaps the moral attributes associated with these majestic birds? Della Bella invites us to consider the complex interplay between nature, culture, and power that defined his era. The eagles are captured not just as creatures of the natural world, but as emblems of the social and political landscape.