Two Flying Putti c. 18th century

Editor: Here we have Two Flying Putti, a drawing in the style of François Boucher, housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The sketch has a playful, lighthearted feel to it. What do you make of it? Curator: The putti, or cherubs, are potent symbols aren't they? They are a continuation of classical imagery adopted by Christianity, representing divine love and innocence. What emotions do these figures evoke? Editor: They seem a bit mischievous, not purely angelic. Curator: Indeed! Perhaps Boucher, or the artist in his manner, sought to humanize these sacred figures, reminding us that even divine love can be playful, full of human emotion. Do you agree? Editor: That's a perspective shift I hadn't considered. Curator: Visual symbols truly carry so much weight. Editor: Definitely something to keep in mind.