Bust of a Polish man c. 1641

Stefano della Bella created this print, "Bust of a Polish Man," using etching techniques. The portrait’s composition is immediately striking; the subject’s direct gaze and the detailed rendering of his fur hat draw us in. Della Bella uses line and texture to create a sense of depth and volume. Notice how the intricate lines define the contours of the face and the luxurious fabric of his attire. Light and shadow play across the surface, enhancing the tactile quality of the fur and the smoothness of the skin. The etcher's marks capture the material richness of the costume, reflecting an interest in exoticism. This approach to portraiture is typical of its time, where capturing likeness was less about pure representation and more about constructing an image of status and cultural identity. The print invites us to reflect on how clothing and appearance can act as signs, communicating complex messages about the sitter's place in the world.