Venus Victorious c. 1914 - 1916

Editor: So, this is Auguste Renoir's "Venus Victorious," a bronze sculpture in the Tate collection. I'm struck by the contrast between the smooth skin and the roughly textured drapery. What can you tell me about the material choices here? Curator: Considering Renoir’s background as a painter, it’s fascinating to see him translate his understanding of form and texture into sculpture, especially late in his career. The bronze casting process itself, the labor involved in creating the mold and the final product, and even the social implications of bronze as a valued material, all contribute to the sculpture's meaning. How does understanding the means of production impact your interpretation of Venus? Editor: It makes me think about the commodification of the female form, and the value placed on both the artist's skill and the material itself. Thanks for shedding light on that. Curator: Likewise; it's helpful to consider how the means of production and consumption can affect our appreciation of the piece.