Venus and Adonis c. 1600

"Venus and Adonis," a c. 1600 pewter relief by Paulus Willemsz. van Vianen, depicts the Roman goddess Venus reclining while Adonis, her mortal lover, stands beside her. The work is a fine example of the Mannerist style of the Dutch Golden Age, characterized by intricate detail and a highly stylized approach to human anatomy. This silver relief would have likely been displayed in a wealthy home, serving as both a decorative object and a symbol of the artist's skill. The relief is notable for its vibrant surface and realistic details, including the lush landscape, the couple’s poses, and the surrounding fauna. The piece is housed in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, a testament to the enduring appeal of van Vianen's work.