Mar 3, 2009
Dec 8, 2008
Mar 3, 2009

Cupid Complaining to Venus

Cupid Complaining to Venus

c. 1540–1546

Peter Flötner

(German, 1485–1546)

Lead

Overall: 6.8 x 9.2 cm (2 11/16 x 3 5/8 in.)

Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1984.15

Description

This plaquette interprets an ancient Greek poem by Theocritus. Having been stung by a swarm of bees after attempting to steal their honey, Cupid sought refuge in the arms of his mother Venus, the goddess of love. Surprised that such small creatures could cause such great pain, Venus reminded Cupid, that like the sting of a bee, love’s arrow could be dangerous.

Video

Plaquettes
Cupid and the Bees
Metal Casting
See also
Collection: 
Sculpture
Type of artwork: 
Sculpture
Medium: 
Lead

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