Twee fotoreproducties van schilderijen van putti door P. J. Carpey before 1881

This print by Charles Claesen features two photographic reproductions of putti paintings by P.J. Carpey. The cherubic figures float against a cloud-like background, framed by ornate, decorative borders, reflecting a popular aesthetic for decorative arts. In 19th-century Europe, this image reveals the role of reproductive technologies in disseminating art beyond elite circles. Photography allowed for the mass production of artworks, making them accessible to a broader public for personal enjoyment and domestic display. The institutional context is also important; galleries and museums began to grow, educating the public about art and creating a market for reproductions. These images of putti also reflect prevailing social attitudes. Images of cherubic figures were often associated with innocence, beauty, and divine love, reinforcing sentimental values. By studying the history of reproductive technologies, the growth of museums, and the cultural meanings of certain images, we can gain insight into the complex relationship between art and society.