Engel kroont twee putti omgeven door ornamenten 1683 - 1733

Bernard Picart created this print of an angel crowning two putti amidst ornamental designs using etching. In the late 17th and early 18th centuries, artists like Picart worked within a complex system of patronage and artistic academies, shaping the production and reception of art. This print reflects the period's fascination with classical motifs and allegorical representation. Made in the Netherlands, the image blends religious and secular themes, a characteristic of Dutch art from this time. The ornamental design, with its symmetry and stylized forms, mirrors the prevailing artistic tastes, while the angel figure and putti draw on Christian iconography, reflecting the religious undertones prevalent in Dutch society. Understanding this work requires delving into the cultural and institutional contexts of the time, including examining the role of academies and artistic patronage. By looking at these resources, we can better appreciate how Picart’s print engages with the social structures and aesthetic values of its time.