The Tinted Venus (detail) 1862

"The Tinted Venus," a marble sculpture by John Gibson, is a Neoclassical piece created in 1862. The sculpture depicts the Roman goddess Venus, with a partially draped body, emphasizing her idealized beauty. Her pose is reminiscent of classical sculptures, reflecting Gibson's admiration for ancient Greek and Roman art. Despite the Neoclassical style, Gibson chose to apply a subtle color to the marble, a technique that was considered unconventional at the time. The sculpture’s smooth surface and delicate details further enhance the beauty and grace of Venus. The use of marble as a medium also speaks to the classical influence of Gibson's artwork.