Two Studies of a Flying Putto 1617 - 1655

Cornelis Schut created this red chalk drawing, *Two Studies of a Flying Putto*, sometime before his death in 1655. Schut was a leading figure in Antwerp’s artistic scene during the Baroque period. At first glance, the sketch appears to be a simple study of cherubic figures. However, its creation occurred during a time of intense religious and political conflict. The visual arts were often employed as tools for ideological expression. In this context, the putto, or cherub, served as more than just a decorative element. Rooted in both classical and Christian traditions, the cherub became a potent symbol for divine love, salvation, and even political power. Schut was known for his contributions to religious and allegorical works, where putti were frequently used to convey complex theological and philosophical concepts. These figures, suspended in air, invite us to meditate on the intersection of the earthly and the divine, reflecting the era’s deep spiritual preoccupations. While seemingly weightless and free, the putti are also laden with the weight of symbolic meaning.