Vechtende putti 1619 - 1690

Curator: This small engraving, dating sometime between 1619 and 1690, is attributed to Peter van Lint and it’s titled “Vechtende putti," which translates to "Fighting Putti." It resides here at the Rijksmuseum. What do you make of it? Editor: Immediately, the frenetic energy grabs you, doesn’t it? It’s chaotic, like a cherubic mosh pit, yet contained within this tiny square. What a delightful contrast. Curator: Right? These little putti, or cherubs, are locked in what appears to be both a playful scuffle and perhaps something a bit more earnest. Note the wreath held aloft by one; victory is definitely on someone’s mind here. Wreaths often represent triumph, but given that the scene suggests conflict, is it being bestowed or is it up for grabs? Editor: Interesting point. The wreath hovers almost tauntingly above the struggling figures. It's less an award, and more an instigator! Makes you think about the symbols of glory – how quickly they can become weapons, eh? Also, observe that while many putti grapple, others appear detached, almost indifferent, as if the squabble were an amusing side show. Curator: The expressions are particularly fascinating given the period, don’t you think? We tend to associate Baroque art with grand drama, but this piece has an almost gritty realism. Editor: True. They’re rendered with such muscular detail that their chubby limbs are imbued with an intense weightiness. It’s fascinating. There is a tangible push and pull between weightiness and levity here. That dichotomy, it feels very psychologically acute. Curator: Indeed. And perhaps that tension is the point. This little engraving reminds us that even angels can have their wrestling matches. They just fight using laurel wreaths and rosy cheeks. Editor: A perfect memento mori about the nature of ambition. Makes me want to look closer at Renaissance play, both childish and performative. Curator: Me too! So much detail to keep finding on repeated looking. It’s not the loud art you might expect to discover, but these putti leave their own marks. Editor: Like an early memory.