Venus and Cupid 1571 - 1650

"Venus and Cupid" is an engraving by Bartholomeus Spranger, a Flemish painter and draughtsman, from 1571-1650. The engraving, which is housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts the Roman goddess of love, Venus, seated, with her son Cupid, who is drawing back his bow to shoot an arrow. It is a classic depiction of the subject, and embodies the themes of love, beauty, and desire. The use of line and shadow in this engraving, characteristic of the Mannerist style, creates a sense of depth and realism, highlighting the contrast between the figures and the background.