Lucas Cranach The Elder (German, 1472-1553) --- --- ---- Venus c.1518
Cranach made numerous paintings on this subject: some depict Venus with her son, the mischievous Cupid, bow and arrow in hand; others warn of perils of bittersweet love. Here, the goddess is alone, holding us in her gaze. As if mocking at modesty, the jewellery and thin veil only emphasize her nudity. Her lithe, slightly swaying stance and elongated proportions offer an idea of beauty different from contemporary Italian art. Cranach’s many Venuses have become emblems of the German Renaissance.
Lucas Cranach The Elder (German, 1472-1553) --- --- ---- Venus c.1518
Cranach made numerous paintings on this subject: some depict Venus with her son, the mischievous Cupid, bow and arrow in hand; others warn of perils of bittersweet love. Here, the goddess is alone, holding us in her gaze. As if mocking at modesty, the jewellery and thin veil only emphasize her nudity. Her lithe, slightly swaying stance and elongated proportions offer an idea of beauty different from contemporary Italian art. Cranach’s many Venuses have become emblems of the German Renaissance.