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Allegory: Four Putti

Mather Brown

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of cherubs engaged in playful activities. The image shows three cherubic figures in different lively poses. One cherub is airborne holding up a framed portrait with tools bursting out. Another cherub is sitting and using a saw on a plank resting on a rock. The third cherub is lying down with arms spread, appearing to be either asleep or resting. They all have curly hair and youthful features. The background is simple, emphasizing the cherubs, and the drawing style is characterized by clear, confident lines resembling renaissance penmanship.

Artwork Details

Date
1780/1790
Medium
pen and brown ink over graphite on laid paper
Dimensions
4813 × 3588 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original