Print from Drawing Book c. 1610 - 1620

This print from a drawing book was created by Luca Ciamberlano in the 17th century. The cherubic figure, with its downcast eyes, embodies a universal symbol of innocence. But this image is more than just a portrayal of purity. The motif of the child appears across time and cultures, from ancient Roman depictions of Cupid to Renaissance paintings of the Christ Child. The slight melancholy in the child's expression harkens back to the classical concept of 'puer dolorosus,' the suffering child. Perhaps unconsciously, Ciamberlano tapped into a collective memory, evoking a primal connection to vulnerability. The soft curls contrast with the sharp lines, creating a tension that draws us into the child's inner world. This enduring image transcends its immediate context. It speaks to the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth, reminding us of the deep-seated emotions that bind humanity across time.