Plate 16: an elephant in center, his mahout standing to the right wearing an Oriental costume, another elephant to left in background, from 'Diversi capricci' 1639 - 1649

This etching by Stefano della Bella, titled "Plate 16: An Elephant in Center, His Mahout Standing to the Right Wearing an Oriental Costume, Another Elephant to Left in Background, from ‘Diversi Capricci’" (1639-1649), showcases the artist's mastery of detail and linework. Depicting two elephants, one in the foreground and another in the background, della Bella captures the animals' imposing presence with precision. The prominent mahout, dressed in elaborate attire, adds a human element to the scene, drawing attention to the exotic nature of the subject. The etching, part of a series titled "Diversi Capricci," demonstrates della Bella's interest in capturing the world around him with realism and artistic flair. The piece, currently held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, provides a glimpse into 17th-century European fascination with exotic animals and cultures.