Bacchanale with Putti c. 1560

Enea Salmeggia created this drawing, Bacchanale with Putti, with pen and brown ink. At first glance, one is struck by the dynamic composition and the intricate network of lines that define the forms of the figures. The putti, or cherubic figures, are arranged in a lively, almost chaotic manner, their bodies intertwined, suggesting a scene of revelry and play. The texture of the drawing is rich, created by the density and variation of the ink lines, which range from delicate strokes to bold contours. Salmeggia masterfully uses line to create depth and movement within the composition. The pen strokes not only define the shapes of the figures but also create a sense of light and shadow, enhancing the overall dynamism of the scene. The horizontal orientation emphasizes the sprawling, energetic activity of the putti, encapsulating the vitality of a bacchanal. This drawing invites us to consider how formal elements can convey deeper cultural and philosophical meanings.