Cupid on a lion 1670 - 1695

Mattheus van Beveren carved this ivory sculpture of Cupid on a lion sometime in the late 17th century, a period marked by grand displays of power and burgeoning colonial expansion. At first glance, we see Cupid, the god of love, playfully controlling a majestic lion. However, if we consider the historical context, the image becomes more complex. Lions were often used to symbolize power, courage, and dominion. Meanwhile, ivory, the material itself, was a precious commodity obtained through colonial trade, often involving exploitation and violence. The sculpture thus reflects the intertwined themes of love, power, and colonial ambition. Cupid's dominance over the lion can be seen as a metaphor for the control and subjugation of foreign lands and people. It invites us to consider the emotional and ethical implications of such power dynamics, and to reflect on the stories we tell ourselves about love and conquest.