Auction of the Cupids 1799

"Auction of the Cupids" is an etching by Johann Heinrich Ramberg, created in 1799. The satirical print depicts a group of people gathered around a table, bidding on cupids as if they were commodities. The scene is set in a wooded area, with flying cupids in the background, adding a playful and whimsical touch. The artist uses meticulous detail and linework to capture the characters’ expressions and the drama of the scene, creating a humorous commentary on the societal norms and values of the time. Ramberg’s work, known for its wit and sharp observation, is a significant example of German printmaking in the late 18th century.