Venus with Cupid Whittling His Bow

c. 1617

Odoardo Fialetti

Associated Names
Odoardo Fialetti

Artist, Italian, 1573 - 1638

Two cherubic figures are depicted under a tree. One figure is sitting sideways, with their head turned slightly to face the other figure. The other figure is slightly bent forward with attention focused downward, and has small wings on its back. The background shows a large, twisting tree with intricate foliage. There are no clothes, jewelry, or objects held by the figures. The environment underlines a natural, serene setting reminiscent of classical depictions of mythological beings.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.
Not on view See artworks now on view

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 17.8 x 9.5 cm (7 x 3 3/4 in.)
    sheet: 18.2 x 9.9 cm (7 3/16 x 3 7/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1997.49.1

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Bartsch, no. 18

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(William H. Schab, New York); purchased by NGA, 1997.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1802

  • Bartsch, Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1802-1821: Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna: J.V. Degen, 1802-1821.

Inscriptions

none

Markings

none

Wikidata ID

Q75404104

You may be interested in

Loading Results