Artwork

Venus Lamenting over Adonis' Death

Venus Lamenting over Adonis' Death, by Herman van Swanevelt, ink, 1628
Venus Lamenting over Adonis' Death, by Herman van Swanevelt, ink, 1628

Venus Lamenting over Adonis' Death is an ink print by the Baroque artist Herman van Swanevelt. It dates from 1628 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Venus Lamenting over Adonis' Death is an etching by Herman van Swanevelt, created in 1628. The work is a print that depicts a scene from mythology.

Subject & Meaning

The etching shows a kneeling woman beside a lifeless body, her arms outstretched in despair. A dog stands nearby, heightening the sense of sorrow. The scene is set in a landscape with trees, hills, and clouds, and conveys a mood of sadness and loss.

Technique & Style

The work is characteristic of Swanevelt's style, with a focus on conveying emotion through the poses and expressions of the figures.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Herman van Swanevelt

Artist

Herman van Swanevelt

Herman van Swanevelt (1603–1655) was a Dutch artist, born in Woerden.

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