Venus en Adonis 1694 - 1766

Matthijs Balen created this drawing, Venus en Adonis, in the 18th century using pen and brush in grey ink. It portrays the tragic love between Venus, the goddess of love, and Adonis, a mortal youth celebrated for his beauty. Balen was working in a Dutch society deeply shaped by its colonial past. The themes of love and loss take on new layers of meaning when considered within this context. The gaze with which Balen captures Venus and Adonis potentially invites us to reflect on the power dynamics inherent in relationships. The death of Adonis underscores themes of mortality and mourning, and is a poignant reminder of the human condition. Balen skillfully captures an emotional and personal dimension of his subjects. He encourages us to confront our own understanding of love, loss, and the delicate balance of power within human relationships.