Artwork
Allegory of Carnal Love
Allegory of Carnal Love is a print by the Renaissance artist Cristofano Robetta. It dates from 1530 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1923.744
- Credit line
- Gift of The Print Club of Cleveland
About this work
Overview
Allegory of Carnal Love is a print depicting a complex scene of intertwined figures, exploring the concept of human love.
Subject & Meaning
The print features Cupid binding a man's wrist to a tree, while two couples are tied together with a sash, held by a figure of ambiguous sex. The scene may relate to Neoplatonic love treatises, which discussed the role of touch in bridging the sensual and spiritual realms.
Technique & Style
The print's figures are rendered with softened edges, a technique reminiscent of sfumato, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
Context
Created in Florence, the print may have been influenced by local philosophical debates about the nature of love and the relationship between body and soul.
Artist & collection
Artist
Cristofano Robetta (1462 – 1535) was an Italian artist, goldsmith, and engraver. Robetta was a Florentine "who made some rich, intricate engravings in the fine manner". He often made engravings which replicated…
