Putto, zwevend tussen bladranken c. 1500 - 1600

This small engraving presents a 'putto' floating among foliage, made by the Monogrammist HFG. The identity of the artist remains unknown. The image taps into the rich visual language of the Renaissance, where 'putti'—chubby, winged children—were frequently deployed in art. They appear as symbols of divine love, innocence, and playfulness. The engraving makes use of dense foliage, contributing to the ornamental aesthetic that was characteristic of the period. The ambiguity in the artist’s identity allows for a broader reflection on the social position of artists, where some remained anonymous while contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of the time. The image offers a glimpse into the emotional and spiritual registers of the Renaissance. It reminds us of the historical weight and cultural importance attached to seemingly simple artistic gestures.