Fries met zes putti 1618 - 1655

Cornelis Schut created "Fries met zes putti," or "Frieze with six putti," using etching. In this print, notice the crisp lines achieved through the etching process, where the artist would have drawn into a wax-coated metal plate with a sharp needle to expose the metal before bathing it in acid. The acid bites away the exposed lines, allowing for the creation of an incised image that can then be inked and printed. The frieze-like composition and the detailed rendering of the cherubic figures showcase Schut’s skill in capturing dynamic movement and playful interaction, which is achieved through the control of line and tone. Prints like this would have been relatively inexpensive, compared to paintings, so this artwork may have been designed for widespread distribution. Schut was active in Antwerp, a significant center for printmaking. Understanding Schut’s mastery of etching, alongside the economic factors of the print market, deepens our appreciation for both his technical ability and the social context in which this work was created.