Standbeeld van Venus 1636 - 1647

This drawing of a Venus statue was made by Giovanni Luigi Valesio in the early 17th century. During this period, artists in Italy rediscovered classical antiquity, but they also transformed it. Nudity, for example, became acceptable in art, but it had to be justified through allegorical or mythological themes. Venus, the goddess of love, was a popular subject, but she was often depicted in a way that was both sensual and idealized. Valesio's drawing reflects the social and cultural values of his time. While the statue is nude, it is presented in a restrained and elegant manner. The dolphin, a symbol of Venus, adds to the overall sense of refinement. The work demonstrates the complex relationship between art, patronage, and social norms that defined the Baroque era in Italy. Historians rely on various resources, such as letters, biographies, and institutional records, to understand the context in which art was created and consumed. By studying these sources, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the social and cultural significance of art.