Ornament met putto en schild 1530 - 1540

This 16th-century engraving by Monogrammist VG presents an ornamental design featuring a putto, or cherubic boy, holding a shield. The putto, a symbol deeply rooted in classical antiquity, represents divine love and innocence. This motif enjoyed a resurgence during the Renaissance, embodying both religious and secular ideals. Note how the putto's image has traversed time and cultures. Originally pagan symbols of Eros and Cupid, these figures were adopted by Christianity to signify the soul. You see them again and again, in paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, each time imbued with a blend of sacred and sensual qualities. The shield, an emblem of protection, reinforces a sense of security and defense, tapping into our collective subconscious need for safety. This engraving, though small, encapsulates how symbols continually evolve, carrying layers of history and emotion.