Wollust verführt einen Genius c. 1695 - 1697

Antonio Bellucci’s study, “Wollust verführt einen Genius,” presents a powerful allegory with a winged male figure symbolizing genius, succumbing to the embrace of Wollust, or lust. The genius, a figure of intellect and inspiration, is entwined with a figure representing desire. This scene evokes the ancient motif of the "Judgment of Hercules," seen in Roman frescos, where the hero must choose between virtue and pleasure. The wings, traditionally symbols of spiritual aspiration, here seem weighed down, suggesting a fall from higher ideals. Consider, too, the ubiquitous image of Cupid and Psyche. In that tale, Psyche's downfall comes from her own curiosity and desire, echoing the theme of intellect undermined by passion. These images reveal the recurring human drama of navigating reason and desire. The raw emotion captured in Bellucci's sketch strikes at the heart of our own subconscious struggles, reminding us that the path of genius is often fraught with the temptations that test the limits of human will.