Triomferende, geblinddoekte Cupido (Omnia vincit Amor) 1743

Jean Michel Liotard created this drawing called 'Triomferende, geblinddoekte Cupido' using pen and gray ink. Notice how the composition is structured around basic geometric forms. A square subtly frames a circle, which contains the figure of Cupid balanced on a sphere. Cupid’s figure is a study in contrasts: while Cupid stands on the summit of a sphere, a symbol of worldly dominion, the figure is blindfolded. This contrast sets up an intellectual play on ideas about power, where reason is sacrificed to instinct. The image suggests how power often operates blindly, directed by uncontrollable desires. Observe the subtle details in shading and line work, enhancing the image. The title, 'Omnia vincit Amor', or 'Love conquers all', adds a layer of irony. Does the image present love as a constructive force or as an irrational, dominating passion? The structured, almost mathematical, precision of Liotard's technique, and the contrasting image suggests a world where classical ideals are perpetually questioned.