Mars, Venus, and Cupid, 1530

Engravingexpand_more

Gift of Herschel V. Jones, 1926expand_more  P.10,634

Not on Viewexpand_more

By 1529, Lucas was influenced by Italian Renaissance art with its emphasis on monumental form. He became obsessed with the human figure depicted in bold form and confident pose. The engraving Mars, Venus and Cupid is typical of Lucas's late manner with its classicizing, sculpturesque nudes. The sensitive control of light and shade, plasticity of form and animated surface reflect the influence of the German master Albrecht Dürer and the Flemish painter Jan Gossaert called Mabuse, who were both influenced by Raphael and the Italian engraver Marcantonio Raimondi.

Thematically, the composition is an allegory of love and strife. Venus expresses inner union and accord with the seductive gaze and posture of a temptress. In contrast, Mars represents disunity and discord bearing his sword and peering at the viewer. The sphere depicted in the left of the composition alludes to domination and instability --a love that is unsure. In essence, Lucas's composition is a moralizing comment on the sin of carnal love and adultery.

Details
Title
Mars, Venus, and Cupid
Artist Life
c. 1490 - 1533
Role
Artist
Accession Number
P.10,634
Provenance
Pierre Mariette (L. 1789); F. Rechberger (L>2133); Albertina Dupl.
Catalogue Raisonne
B.137, 411; H.137 i/iv; V.122
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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