An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Venus and CupidLorenzo Lotto
Italian, Venice ca. 1480–1556 Loreto
1520s
36 3/8 x 43 7/8 in. (92.4 x 111.4 cm)
Painting
Oil on canvas
European Paintings
Purchase, Mrs. Charles Wrightsman Gift, in honor of Marietta Tree, 1986
In Lorenzo Lotto's "Venus and Cupid," we find a tender moment captured in the soft embrace of nature. Venus, the goddess of love, reclines gracefully on a vibrant blue cloth, symbolizing tranquility and sensuality. Her serene expression invites us to ponder beauty and desire.
Cupid, playful and innocent, stands beside her, holding a garland of laurel leaves. His cherubic figure is infused with life, showcasing a youthful curiosity. The intertwining of Venus’s calm demeanor with Cupid’s mischief reflects the complex nature of love—both nurturing and spirited.
The background, adorned with rich fabrics and lush greenery, envelops the figures, creating a sense of intimacy. The use of light and shadow accentuates the softness of Venus's skin, while the delicate petals scattered around serve as a reminder of love’s ephemeral nature.
This artwork draws us into a world where beauty, love, and nature converge, encouraging contemplation of the timeless themes that resonate with our hearts.
About the artist
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