The artwork titled “Cherub sitting in the act of covering” is attributed to Giovanni Battista Piranesi and belongs to the Neoclassicism art movement. This religious painting is part of the series “Collection of drawings engraved after Guercino.” The piece depicts a cherub in a serene pose, partially covered by a draped cloth.
In the artwork, one observes the cherub, a classically depicted infant with plump, idealized features, seated on a raised platform. The cherub holds a piece of fabric, attempting to cover itself, which adds a sense of modesty to the depiction. The delicate shading and meticulous detail in the engraving showcase Piranesi’s exquisite craftsmanship. The background consists of cross-hatched lines, contributing to the depth and three-dimensionality of the image. The overall composition reflects the characteristics typical of Neoclassicism, emphasizing simplicity, clarity, and an idealized beauty.