Two Children Playing with a Ball 1500 - 1546

This pen and brown ink drawing, “Two Children Playing with a Ball,” was made by Peter Flötner sometime in the first half of the 16th century. Flötner was a leading figure in introducing Renaissance ideals to Germany. The children in this scene appear as classical putti, a common motif from antiquity representing innocence. However, in Flötner’s time, childhood was not regarded as a distinct, carefree stage of life. Instead, children were often seen as miniature adults, expected to contribute to society from a young age. The putti are rendered nude, a classical representation of the human form. Flötner's decision to depict children in this classical style reflects the Renaissance interest in humanism, emphasizing human potential and experience, even in youth. But, the presence of death, represented by the skull, is a reminder of mortality, a common theme in Renaissance art. It asks us to reflect on the transience of life, even in the midst of play. It's a tender, bittersweet memento mori.