Phaeton, from 'Game of Mythology' (Jeu de la Mythologie) 1644

"Phaeton," a 1644 etching by Stefano della Bella, depicts the Greek myth of Phaeton, son of the sun god Helios, who was granted permission to drive his father's chariot. Unable to control the fiery steeds, Phaeton is thrown from the chariot, crashing to Earth. The dramatic scene, rendered in detailed hatching, shows the horses struggling to control the chariot, with Phaeton falling from the sky and the sun radiating above. This print, part of della Bella's "Game of Mythology" series, is a prime example of the artist's mastery of the etching technique and his ability to capture the energy and drama of classical mythology.