Twee putti 1671 - 1726

This is an anonymous line engraving titled “Twee putti” held at the Rijksmuseum. Here, we see two cherubic figures rendered with precise, deliberate strokes. Their plump forms and playful interaction evoke a sense of classical innocence, but the sharp, clean lines introduce a layer of formal complexity. The composition is intriguing. The putti are stacked, creating a sense of dynamic instability. This precarious balance disrupts the traditional harmony associated with classical depictions of cherubs. The artist uses light and shadow through cross-hatching to define volume. The materiality of the engraving—the stark contrast of black ink on white paper—emphasizes the structured nature of the image. We are drawn into a space where form and content intertwine, challenging conventional interpretations of beauty and harmony. This piece invites us to consider how established artistic values are constantly questioned.