Liggend ovaal met putto op zeewezen 1573 - 1610

Christoph Jamnitzer engraved this oval composition depicting a winged putto riding a sea creature. The image is imbued with symbols from classical mythology. Here, we see the synthesis of human and animal forms, reminiscent of ancient chimeras, expressing a potent blend of instincts and intellect. The putto, a cherubic figure, often represents divine love. When paired with a sea creature, we see a connection to aquatic realms and the mysteries of the subconscious. This evokes the iconography of Cupid riding a dolphin, a symbol that first appears in ancient Roman art, representing the soul’s journey. Observe how the image resonates with Botticelli’s Venus, a symbol of rebirth and the enduring power of love and desire. These motifs are not merely aesthetic choices; they are carriers of memory. The image's emotional power lies in its ability to tap into our collective unconscious, evoking primal emotions and timeless human experiences. It's a cycle where images resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings across history.