Artwork

Venus (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #43)

Venus (from the Tarocchi, series A:  Firmaments of the Universe, #43), by Master of the E-Series Tarocchi, 1467
Venus (from the Tarocchi, series A:  Firmaments of the Universe, #43), by Master of the E-Series Tarocchi, 1467

Venus (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #43) is a print by the Renaissance artist Master of the E-Series Tarocchi. It dates from 1467 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The figure is personified, which is interesting because it shows how people in the 15th century thought about the planets and gods.

This painting shows a nude female figure, Venus, bathing in a small river.
She's in profile, holding a sea creature.
The figure is personified, which is interesting because it shows how people in the 15th century thought about the planets and gods.
Venus is part of a series called Firmaments of the Universe, which includes other planets and celestial spheres.
To learn more, check out the work of artist Master of the E-Series Tarocchi.

Overview

Venus is an engraving from the Tarocchi series A, 'Firmaments of the Universe', which depicts celestial bodies from classical astronomy and their relation to the Supreme Entity. This piece represents Venus, the third planet, personified as a nude female figure.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving personifies Venus, Goddess of Love and daughter of Jupiter, in a serene river scene. Accompanied by blindfolded Cupid, three Graces, and doves, the composition symbolizes Venus's association with love and beauty.

Technique & Style

The engraving features a nude female figure in profile, holding a sea shell, with Cupid and the Graces rendered in detail. The style is characteristic of the Master of the E-Series Tarocchi, emphasizing classical themes and symbolic elements.

History & Provenance

Created in the 15th century, this engraving is part of a series including the seven classical planets and three celestial spheres. The work is attributed to the Master of the E-Series Tarocchi.

Context

The piece reflects 15th-century perceptions of planetary deities, drawing from classical astronomy and mythology. The Tarocchi series as a whole explores the hierarchical structure of the universe.

Legacy

As part of the Tarocchi series, 'Venus' contributes to the understanding of Renaissance artistic and astronomical thought. The series' unique blend of mythology and early modern cosmology has fascinated scholars and art historians.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.