Putto Bending a Bow

Putto Bending a Bow, a red chalk drawing attributed to the renowned Venetian master Giorgione (1477-1510), captures the lively spirit and classical inspiration characteristic of High Renaissance iconography. The original fragment, a delicate study measuring just 15.7 x 6.6 cm, was later integrated into a significantly larger sheet (23.7 x 15.2 cm). This expansion, a common practice for distinguished collectors like Pierre-Jean Mariette, utilizes pen and brown ink, additional red chalk, and a brush applied red wash to delineate a surrounding niche and base, transforming the slight figure into a sculptural trompe-l'oeil study.

The subject, a winged putto concentrating intently on bending a large bow, serves as a direct, playful reference to Cupid, the classical god of desire and affection. While the figure’s energetic posture suggests influence from contemporary Italian sculpture, Giorgione’s characteristic use of red chalk provides a softness and atmospheric handling of light distinctive of the Venetian school. This early drawing, an essential example of the artist's preparatory methods, is classified as a foundational piece within the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s esteemed collection of Old Master drawings. Although Giorgione’s authentic surviving output is small, the enduring quality of works like Putto Bending a Bow ensures its widespread accessibility. Due to its age, this artwork is frequently found in the public domain, allowing institutions and private collectors globally to utilize high-quality prints for scholarly study and general appreciation.