Venus 1569

Etienne Delaune created this engraving, "Venus", during the vibrant period of the Northern Renaissance. Delaune, working amidst the religious and political upheavals of 16th-century France, infused classical mythology with the anxieties of his time. Here, we see Venus orchestrating the awakening of a sleeping figure, her influence spreading through the allegorical scene. The male nude is a complicated subject and the male gaze is directed towards him. Delaune’s choice to depict the scene in such detail invites us to consider the role of classical narratives in shaping contemporary views on desire, beauty, and power. What feelings emerge as you reflect on the narrative woven into this piece? How does Delaune engage with the historical weight of classical allegory while offering a glimpse into the emotional landscape of his era?