Venus and Adonis 1696 - 1727

"Venus and Adonis" is an etching by Dutch artist Matthijs Pool, dating from between 1696 and 1727. The artwork depicts a scene from Roman mythology, where the goddess Venus attempts to persuade Adonis to stay with her, but Adonis is distracted by the hunt. The image shows Venus embracing Adonis, while Cupid plays with dogs in the background. This artwork is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, illustrating the enduring popularity of classical mythology in art. The intricate detail and delicate linework are typical of Pool's style, and the subject matter resonates with viewers even today.