Putti with the Attributes of the Arts
1627–1703
Medium
Pen and brown ink, brush and brown wash over some charcoal
Dimensions
5 9/16 x 7 3/8in. (14.2 x 18.8cm)
Classification
Drawings
Department
Drawings and Prints
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Cornelius Vanderbilt, 1880
Accession Number
80.3.515
Rights
Public Domain
Tags
Art Historical Context
Domenico Piola (1627–1703), a prominent Genoese artist, crafted this delightful drawing, *Putti with the of the Arts*, as lively study of cherubic figures—playful putti—surrounded by symbols of painting, music, sculpture, more. These winged children, a staple of Baroque and Renaissance art, embody creative inspiration and joy, often appearing in grand frescoes or altarpieces. Here, they frolic with dogs, adding a whimsical touch that highlights Piola's skill in capturing movement and tenderness in preparatory sketches. Executed in pen and brown ink with brush and brown wash over charcoal, the...