Venus Discovering Adonis c. 18th century

Editor: So, this is Giovanni Battista Cipriani's "Venus Discovering Adonis", from the late 18th century, a watercolor and ink drawing. The figures almost seem to float. What do you make of it? Curator: Notice the labor involved in this piece. The artist meticulously applied the ink and wash, creating a layered effect. Consider the social context: how this type of artwork served as preparatory sketches for larger commissions. Editor: That's a good point about its function as a study. It does seem like a step in a larger process. Curator: Exactly. It highlights the means of production and the materiality of art in that era, a contrast to our contemporary digital creation. Editor: I hadn't thought of it in terms of its production. I'll definitely look at drawings differently now. Curator: Good! The material conditions shape the art.