Rome, [1647]. A suite of 12 different prints (16.0 x 12.7 cm). Original engraved prints.

A complete suite of twelve lovely engravings by Giacinto Gimignani (1606-1681), also numbered 1 to 12 (frontispiece included), from the Scherzi e givochi series of putti (children engaged in various games, sports and other playground activities). The first, acting as frontispiece-title depicts putti supporting a shield with the coat of arms of Pope Leo X (Giovanni de’ Medici, 1475-1521). Giacinto Gimignani was a pupil of Poussin and Pierre de Cortone. These childhood playtime engravings, which, however, includes putti drinking wine and fighting, were quite popular during the 17th and 18th centuries. See Lorizzo for the history of Gimignani’s putti and this suite. Slight, marginal soiling, a few unobtrusive spots, restricted mainly to the upper left corner, otherwise very good. Imprints strong. L. Lorizzo (2013) Un fregio ‘con quantità de putti’ di Giacinto Gimignani per il Palazzo Pamphilj alla Fontana di Trevi, in Storia dell’Arte 135, pp. 89-99.