Venus and Adonis c. 1628 - 1629

"Venus and Adonis" is a 17th century painting by Nicolas Poussin depicting a scene from the ancient Roman poem "Metamorphoses" by Ovid. The work is known for its classicism and balanced composition. Venus, the Roman goddess of love, is depicted in the foreground pleading with Adonis, a mortal man, to stay with her. In the background, Cupids in a chariot driven by doves, a symbol of love, fly away. The painting highlights the conflict between love and mortality, a theme explored throughout Poussin's career. The artist's meticulous attention to detail and the inclusion of classical elements like the chariot and cupids are characteristic of his Baroque style.