Artwork

River God with Putti

River God with Putti, by Cornelis Schut I, ink, 1626
River God with Putti, by Cornelis Schut I, ink, 1626

River God with Putti is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Cornelis Schut I. It dates from 1626 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

River God with Putti is a drawing by Cornelis Schut I, executed in 1626 using pen, ink, and gray wash on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a river god as the central figure, accompanied by putti (small, winged creatures). While the river god remains the primary focus, the putti introduce a lighthearted element, engaging playfully with the god's hair.

Technique & Style

Schut I employed a combination of pen and black ink for lines, supplemented with gray wash applied by brush, characteristic of the period's drawing techniques.

History & Provenance

Created in 1626, specific details regarding the work's ownership history or exhibitions are not provided.

Context

The inclusion of putti reflects a common artistic motif of the time, often used to add whimsy or symbolism in Baroque-era works.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.