Study for a Hovering Putto c. 1735 - 1750

This terracotta sculpture, “Study for a Hovering Putto,” by Jan Baptist Xavery, depicts a cherubic figure in a dynamic pose. The putto, a common motif in Baroque art, is depicted with realistic details and expressive features, showcasing Xavery’s talent for capturing youthful innocence. This small-scale study, likely created between 1735 and 1750, may have served as a preparatory model for a larger work. The unfinished state of the sculpture, particularly the missing left arm, offers a glimpse into the artist's creative process.