Carracci’s Cupids (set of four)

DESCRIPTION: These 4 (four) highly collectible 17th-century engravings are attributed to the Italian artist Annibale Carracci (1560–1609) and adorn the Galleria Farnese in Rome. The inscription "Carac. In." at the bottom left of two is the abbreviation for Carracci Invenit, which translates from Latin to "Carracci designed it". This indicates that while Annibale Carracci provided the original design or painting, another artist likely executed the actual engraving onto the plate – in this case probably Carlo Cesio (1662-1682). The four pieces feature “Two Cupids Fighting" (two winged cupids (or putti) engaged in a struggle, a floating laurel wreath above them intended for the victor, a theme often interpreted as an allegory for the battle between virtue and vice. Similarly “Eros and Antero” (the fight between mutual love (Anteros) and passionate, fleeting love (Eros)). The pieces reflect the late Renaissance and early Baroque style characterized by muscular, dynamic figures and intricate cross-hatching, a hallmark of the Carracci family's work in Bologna and Rome. Such themes of fighting cupids were popular in the circle of the Carracci brothers. For instance, Agostino Carracci produced a similar well-known engraving titled Omnia Vincit Amor ("Love Conquers All"), which depicts Cupid wrestling with Pan. Produced on laid paper with margins. *Note: these original prints have been over-trimmed in antiquity and are thus being marketed ‘sold as seen’. Hence their very reduced price for the set of four (if unspoilt they typically sell for £250+ each). STYLE: Engraving COLOUR: Monochrome SIZE (cm): avg 14.5 x 19 CREATORS: after Annibale Carrucci PUBLICATION: PUBLISHER: DATE: C18 COMMENTS: Very good condition with significant and enhancing patina of antiquity. One of a potential set of four. SUBJECT: Special Collection PACKAGE: Single one-sided sheet in acid-free mount, flat & unfolded inside hard-backed envelope. Royal Mail Tracked 24 included. Note: Images are provided for illustration purposes only and are intended to show the complete printed product, including any imperfections of age that may be present. Frames or props shown in the images are for display purposes only and are not included with your purchase.