Artwork

Venus Wounded by Cupid

Venus Wounded by Cupid, by Pierre Alexandre Aveline, 1731
Venus Wounded by Cupid, by Pierre Alexandre Aveline, 1731

Venus Wounded by Cupid is a print by the Baroque artist Pierre Alexandre Aveline. It dates from 1731 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Venus Wounded by Cupid is a print created by Pierre Alexandre Aveline around 1731. It is a work of intricate design, held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a central female figure, likely Venus, with a child and Cupid nearby. The title suggests a narrative related to love and pain, referencing the myth of Venus wounded by Cupid.

Technique & Style

The print features dense, swirling patterns and numerous figures, including birds and cherubs, rendered in black lines on a light background. Its ornate style is characteristic of the Baroque period, with a design suited to decorative purposes, such as a ceiling or panel.

History & Provenance

The print bears the artist's name and a reference to a royal privilege, indicating its origins in 18th-century France. Created circa 1731, it is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

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.