Artwork description:

Against the backdrop of a red curtain hanging from a tree with ivy, Venus lies naked on a cloth with Cupid standing nearby. The objects scattered all around have various allegorical meanings, from fecundity (cornucopia), to marriage (the myrtle of the garland), to femininity (the shell, the rose petals). The same hairstyle of the goddess, with diadem and veil, was typical of brides. Symbol of purity is the pendant earring with a pearl. Curious is the light-hearted gesture of Cupid peeing centering the garland up to the belly of Venus, a clear erotic allusion to fertility [3].

The goddess, who refers to Giorgione's sleeping Venus, shows her nakedness, awake and conscious, without concern, even looking the viewer in the eye. Ahead is seen an incense burner, a stick and a snake. The goddess therefore seems to bless the couple who are about to get married, wishing them fertility, but guarding herself from hidden dangers, such as the snake. The ivy is instead a symbol of eternal love.

Materials used:

canvas, ink pigments

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