Cartouche met een luitspelende putto 1573 - 1610

This intricate engraving, "Cartouche met een luitspelende putto," is a prime example of the ornamental work by the German goldsmith and engraver Christoph Jamnitzer. Created between 1573 and 1610, it features a putto, or cherubic figure, playing a lute within a decorative cartouche. Jamnitzer was known for his skillful and detailed designs, which often incorporated classical motifs and intricate patterns, as seen in this work. The engraving displays a characteristic blend of Mannerist and Renaissance styles, with its highly stylized forms and emphasis on ornate details. This piece would have been used as a model for decorative arts, illustrating the complex and elaborate designs favoured during this period.