Venus Lamenting the Death of Adonis 1768

"Venus Lamenting the Death of Adonis" is a 1768 oil painting by the English artist Benjamin West. Depicting the Greek myth of Venus and Adonis, the painting shows Venus mourning over the body of her lover Adonis who was killed by a wild boar while hunting. Adonis lays lifeless on the ground while Venus holds a putto, also grieving, close to her. West's use of dramatic lighting and soft colors create a melancholic atmosphere, evoking a sense of deep sorrow and grief. The painting is a classic example of Neoclassical art, characterized by its emphasis on classical mythology, history, and beauty.