The artwork titled “Putti,” created by Michelangelo in 1511, is a fresco belonging to the High Renaissance art movement. This piece, a part of the Sistine Chapel Paintings series, is located in the Sistine Chapel, Vatican. Despite being referred to as a sculpture genre, it is indeed a fresco medium.
The artwork depicts a scene of putti, or cherubic young children, rendered in a highly naturalistic manner. Each putto is positioned within a compartment, standing upright with their hands raised above their heads, as if supporting the architectural structure above them. The anatomy is meticulously detailed, showcasing Michelangelo’s profound understanding of human form and movement. The fresco’s surface shows signs of age with visible cracks, contributing to its historic and venerable character. The composition exudes a serene yet dynamic energy characteristic of the High Renaissance period and exemplifies Michelangelo’s mastery in capturing the delicate balance between form and function.
