Venus, Cupid and a Satyr (?)
circa 1595/98 | Hans von Aachen
The painting has traditionally been identified as Zeus approaching beautiful Antiope in the shape of a Satyr, but the lack of attributes associated with the father of the gods has cast doubt on this reading. Instead, it is probably a depiction of Venus, the goddess of love, and her son Cupid. The sophisticated poses clearly reflect both the influence of the Italian master Correggio, and von Aachen’s love of expressive, elegantly refined gestures.
The painting has traditionally been identified as Zeus approaching beautiful Antiope in the shape of a Satyr, but the lack of attributes associated with the father of the gods has cast doubt on this reading. Instead, it is probably a depiction of Venus, the goddess of love, and her son Cupid. The sophisticated poses clearly reflect both the influence of the Italian master Correggio, and von Aachen’s love of expressive, elegantly refined gestures.
Artist:
Hans von Aachen (1552 Köln - 1615 Prag) DNB
Time:
circa 1595/98
Object Name
Painting
Culture
German
Material/technology:
copper
Dimensions:
30,5 x 21 cm
Framed: 49,8 cm × 41,5 cm × 6 cm
Signed
Inscribed at lower right on the stone with the monogram "HVA
Copyright
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Gemäldegalerie
Invs.
Gemäldegalerie, 1110
Provenance
1783 documented in the gallery