A wild boar running towards the left, a dog biting its ear behind to left, other dogs and horsemen in the background, from 'Hunts of various animals' (Chasses à différents animaux) by Stefano della Bella

A wild boar running towards the left, a dog biting its ear behind to left, other dogs and horsemen in the background, from 'Hunts of various animals' (Chasses à différents animaux) 1651 - 1657

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drawing, print, etching

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drawing

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baroque

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print

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etching

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dog

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landscape

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pencil drawing

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horse

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men

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genre-painting

Dimensions: Sheet: 5 15/16 x 9 5/16 in. (15.1 x 23.7 cm) Plate: 9 3/4 x 9 1/4 in. (24.8 x 23.5 cm)

Copyright: Public Domain

Editor: Here we have Stefano della Bella’s etching from the mid-17th century, titled 'A wild boar running towards the left, a dog biting its ear behind to left, other dogs and horsemen in the background, from 'Hunts of various animals'.' It’s teeming with action; the scene feels almost frantic. What can you tell us about its historical context and purpose? Curator: It’s a fantastic example of Baroque printmaking, showcasing the drama and dynamism prized during that era. Consider that these hunting scenes weren't simply documentation; they reflected aristocratic power and leisure. The chase, the domination over nature - these were potent symbols of social status carefully cultivated by the ruling classes. Do you notice anything about how the composition supports this reading? Editor: The boar is the biggest figure, and centered, but it's being attacked. There's a weird sense of it almost being staged? Curator: Precisely. Think about the politics of imagery here. This print, widely disseminated, normalizes the elite’s dominance. The wild boar, representing untamed nature, is pursued and controlled. This reinforced a social hierarchy. It wasn't about fair chase, it was about the spectacle, public affirmation. How does understanding this potentially shift your perspective on the work? Editor: I see. It’s less a sporting image and more a tool for social control and propaganda almost? It makes me wonder about the perspective of the animal. Curator: A powerful insight. What social narratives are subtly endorsed through the artistic depiction? Perhaps think about other examples of 'genre painting' that support political power. Editor: This has been super interesting. I never thought of etchings having such a strong connection to class and social control. I’ll definitely look at similar artworks with this new framework in mind. Curator: Excellent. Reflecting on the intentions and societal factors driving the creation and viewership will lead to deeper insight. The public role of art makes it endlessly fascinating.

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