Artwork
Putto Visiting a Girl at a Fountain
Putto Visiting a Girl at a Fountain is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Salomon Gessner. It dates from 1771 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Putto Visiting a Girl at a Fountain is an etching on laid paper created by Salomon Gessner in 1771.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts a serene scene of a woman in an old-fashioned dress standing by a stone fountain, approached by a cherub-like child emerging from foliage. The contrast between the woman's calm demeanor and the child's playful gesture adds a layer of intrigue to the scene.
Technique & Style
The print showcases Gessner's skill with etching, a technique that allows for detailed renderings. The work is characterized by its use of black and white, creating a nuanced interplay of light and shadow amidst the natural setting.
Context
The blending of natural scenery with human figures, as seen in this etching, was a popular motif in 18th-century art, reflecting a growing interest in the relationship between humans and their environment.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
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