Venus with an Organist and Cupid
by Titian, 1555
Artwork Details
Details
- Year
- 1555
- Medium
- Oil on canvas
- Size
- 148 cm × 217 cm (58.3 × 85.4 in)
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Titian executed this Venus with an Organist and Cupid around 1555. Venus reclines nude while a musician turns from his organ to gaze at her. Cupid whispers in her ear or crowns her with flowers. Through the window, a formal garden with couples strolling extends toward distant mountains.
The painting's meaning remains debated. Is this an allegory of music and love, with the organist representing hearing and Venus representing sight and touch? Or simply an erotic scene thinly veiled by mythological pretense? The musician's frankly appreciative gaze suggests the latter.
Titian painted several versions of this composition for various patrons. The Prado holds this version, one of the finest explorations of Venetian sensuality.
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About Venus with an Organist and Cupid
Titian painted several versions for wealthy patrons. This version likely belonged to the Spanish royal collection This work dates to 1555.
Possibly the sense of hearing, complementing Venus's visual and tactile beauty. Or he may simply be an admirer enjoying the view.
At the Museo del Prado. It measures 148 × 217 cm (58.3 × 85.4 inches), located in Madrid, Spain The oil on canvas work is part of their permanent collection.
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