This drawing is a preparatory study for Della Bella's series of engravings documenting the ceremonial entry of Polish ambassador Jerzy Ossoliński into Rome on November 27, 1633. The ambassador led a magnificent procession to present his obedience to Pope Urban VIII on behalf of the newly elected Polish king, Władysław IV Vasa. The cortege included 300 participants, notably Polish hussars in their distinctive military attire.

The drawing is part of Della Bella's preparatory work for what would become one of his most important early commissions. The final series of engravings was published in 1633 and became highly sought after for its detailed representation of this diplomatic spectacle. The artist paid particular attention to capturing the unique aspects of Polish military uniform and equestrian equipment, elements that were exotic to Roman viewers of the time.

This study focuses on the meticulous observation of a Polish horseman, probably one of the hussars who participated in the procession. Such preparatory drawings allowed Della Bella to capture the precise details of the riders' poses, their costumes and their equipment before transferring them to the final engraving plates.