Plate 19: Landscape with a Cavalier Watering His Horse at a Fountain, from "Various figures and doodles" (Diverses figures et griffonnemens) 1641 - 1651

This etching by Stefano della Bella, made in the 17th century, depicts a serene landscape where a horse drinks from a fountain, guided by its cavalier. The fountain itself, adorned with a grotesque mask, is a powerful motif. Such masks, often found in Roman fountains, are not merely decorative. They are apotropaic symbols intended to ward off evil spirits, their exaggerated features meant to frighten and protect. We find echoes of these masks across centuries, from ancient Greek theatrical masks to the gargoyles perched on Gothic cathedrals. Consider the persistence of this symbol, a visual language passed down through generations. It reflects a primal human need to confront and control the unseen forces that shape our lives. It's this emotional resonance that allows such imagery to endure, engaging viewers on a subconscious level, tapping into collective fears, and ultimately, offering a sense of protection.