UNIVERSAL SAFETY PEN WITH CHERUB/PUTTY OVERLAY - LADY SIZE

The use of puttis or cherubs to decorate overlays in Italy was quite common in the 1920s/1930s. The word "putti" derives from the latin "putus", which means child. Puttis in the Latin world symbolised the young love god Eros. Images of young plump children dancing and playing has become a reference to the joy and spontaneousness of  pure love. Putti are often referred to as "amorini" in many paintings and frescos: "amorini" is a term of endearment often used with kids.

We can find Puttis in many paintings, frescos, decorations from the Renaissance, Neoclassicism and later. In the Christian perception, puttis are young angels who are pure and joyful.

Many pen makers used images of puttis for they overlays: we find puttis on Waterman pens but also on Record, Vulcan, Ideal, and many other minor brands, too.

This Universal safety pen shows cap and barrel bands decorated with puttis alternating with filigree bands. It is a product from the 1920s manufactured by the Cavaliere workshop in Milan.

For more references to Italian overlays, you can check the blog:

https://www.tenpen.it/article/waterman-safetythe-art-overlay-additions-part-1

The overlay has no damages nor dings, only a small spot on the turning knob show some traces of brassing and wear.

The nib is 14 ct gold with "warranted" engraving.