Ornament with Armor and Horses' Heads 1610 - 1664

This is an etching titled *Ornament with Armor and Horses' Heads* by Stefano della Bella, made sometime in the 17th century. An etching is an image created by incising a metal plate with acid, then inking and printing it. The choice of etching speaks to the status of prints as luxury goods for the rising middle class. It allowed for detailed reproduction and circulation of images. Look closely, and you'll notice the material has influenced the artwork's appearance. The fine lines create a delicate texture, almost like a drawing. The print teems with symbols, the horses heads and armor speak of chivalry and power, a reminder of the social hierarchies of the time. Della Bella was not just an artist, but a skilled technician. The etching process itself, with its precise timing and chemical reactions, required a blend of artistry and craft. Understanding the material and making of this print helps us appreciate the intersection of art, craft, and commerce in early modern Europe.