Venus en Adonis c. 1701

"Venus en Adonis" is a red chalk drawing created by Jacob Toorenvliet around 1701. The drawing depicts the classical myth of Venus and Adonis, the goddess of love and the mortal hunter respectively. It features a dynamic composition with Venus attempting to hold back Adonis from his hunt, while two dogs stand at his feet, symbolizing the dangers of the forest and the inevitable fate of the mortal Adonis. The drawing exemplifies Toorenvliet's mastery of line and form, showcasing his ability to capture the emotion and movement of the figures. It is a testament to the artist's skill in depicting both the passionate nature of the gods and the tragic nature of human mortality.