Venus and Aeneas 1736 - 1763

"Venus and Aeneas" is an etching by French artist Pierre François Courtois, created between 1736 and 1763. The print depicts the Roman goddess Venus, accompanied by several Cupids, descending from the heavens to aid the Trojan hero Aeneas, who is seen on the ground with other figures. The scene is characterized by dramatic movement and expressive figures, a hallmark of Baroque style. This etching, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to Courtois’ skill in capturing the essence of classical mythology through the medium of printmaking. The work showcases the artist's ability to depict both the divine and the mortal realms in intricate detail, and its dynamic composition continues to captivate viewers centuries later.