Pair of 17th Century North European Baroque Cherubs

Pair of 17th Century North European Baroque Cherubs

A vibrant pair of mid-17th century Baroque cherubs, these wooden sculptures embody the exuberant spirit of Northern European religious art. Carved and painted to a highly animated effect, they capture the triumphant energy and ornate style characteristic of the Baroque period.

Origin: Netherlands
Date: Circa 1640
Material: Carved and painted wood

Dimensions: Height: 74 cm (29 ins) | Width: 46 cm (18 ins) | Depth: 35 cm (13.8 ins)

Condition: Well preserved with an excellent patina; minor restorations consistent with age.

These North European cherubs, hailing from the heart of the Dutch Baroque movement, evoke the richly decorative religious interiors of the era. Comparable examples can be found in major museum collections, where similar sculptures lent a spirited presence to church altarpieces and ecclesiastical furnishings. The cherubs’ expressive poses and detailed carving demonstrate the region's skill in wood sculpture, echoing the grandeur found in notable Baroque works by artists such as Artus Quellinus.

Notable Features:

• Exceptional craftsmanship with lively carving and original painted surfaces
• Distinct Baroque design featuring dynamic movement, voluminous drapery, and dramatic expression
• Scarce in this large scale and excellent condition, enhancing their collecting appeal
• Ideally suited for display in both historical settings and modern interiors as striking focal points

The skill evident in the carving of these wooden sculptures, from the intricate curls of their hair to the flowing drapery, is testament to the period’s finest artisans. Their design significance lies in the exuberant forms and theatricality emblematic of Baroque sculpture—a style that sought to inspire awe and devotion.

For collectors and interior enthusiasts alike, this pair offers rare surviving examples of 17th century North European cherubs, making them a valuable acquisition. Their impressive size and captivating presence ensure they stand out in any collection, be it for display, connoisseurship, or as a centrepiece in an elegant space.