Paris Giving Venus the Apple
1750
From the collection of Statens Museum for Kunst
This photo shows a group of people in a dramatic scene. They’re standing and floating in a cloudy sky, wearing flowing clothes or nothing at all. Some look like they’re holding things—like an apple or a staff—while others seem to be flying or posing. The colors are warm and cool at the same time, with deep reds, soft blues, and golden tones. The painting mixes everyday people with figures that look almost like gods. One person in the center holds an apple, which might be the key to the whole scene. Check out the technique: chiaroscuro to see how light and shadow create drama in art.
