Venus entrusting Cupid to Time 1758 - 1780

Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo's etching "Venus entrusting Cupid to Time" (1758-1780) presents a dynamic scene of mythological figures in the sky. Venus, the Roman goddess of love, entrusts her son Cupid to Time, a god depicted as an old man with wings. The scene is set against a cloudy background with a chariot and figures in the distance, adding a sense of grandeur and movement. Tiepolo, a renowned artist of the Venetian school, is known for his dynamic compositions and delicate, airy brushstrokes. This etching demonstrates his mastery of the medium and his skillful use of light and shadow. The print's elegant composition and subject matter likely appealed to a wealthy, educated audience interested in the classics and mythological narratives. This print, held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, provides insight into the artistic trends and aesthetics of the 18th century, highlighting Tiepolo's unique artistic vision.