Cherub on a Vase with Inscription: "SOLI DEO HONOR"

1500

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Cherub on a Vase with Inscription: "SOLI DEO HONOR" is a 1500 by Peregrino da Cesena, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Peregrino da Cesena
When & what style?: 1500 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This painting depicts a cherub standing on a vase, with an inscription above that reads "SOLI DEO HONOR". The cherub is nude and has short hair. The background of the painting is dark, which contrasts with the light-colored figure of the cherub. The cherub's pose suggests a sense of movement or energy, as if it is about to step off the vase. The inscription above the cherub adds a sense of meaning or symbolism to the painting, although its exact significance is unclear. The use of niello print as a medium gives the painting a unique texture and appearance. For more information on the artist's use of this technique, look up Peregrino da Cesena.