Venus was painted by Wenceslaus Hollar in 1642.

Where can I see Venus?

Venus is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Venus?

Venus is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Venus?

Museum-quality prints of Venus are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Venus

Wenceslaus Hollar , 1642

Venus is an ink print by the Baroque artist Wenceslaus Hollar. It dates from 1642 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower left in plate: W. Hollar fecit; lower center in plate: VENVS; lower right in plate: ex Collectione Arundelliana / Adam Elsheimer pinxit; lower center in by later hand, lower left verso in graphite: O. Venus after / Elsheimer / P. 271; by later hand, upper center in brown ink: Marsh E(not deciphered)ht. 1833

About this work

Overview

Venus is a 1642 etching on laid paper by Wenceslaus Hollar, a Czech-born artist active in England during the Baroque period. The work depicts the Roman goddess Venus in a mythological scene.

Subject & Meaning

The etching portrays Venus seated in the foreground with her back to the viewer, draped in a flowing cloth. Accompanying her is a cherub holding a basket of flowers to her right, set against a natural backdrop of trees and flying birds. The composition conveys a serene, mythological moment.

Technique & Style

Executed in a detailed etching style, the work features intricate lines and textures, achieving depth and realism. Effective shading and contrast enhance the sense of volume and dimensionality, characteristic of Hollar's technical proficiency.

History & Provenance

Created in 1642, Venus is a product of Hollar's activity in England during the Baroque era. While Hollar was known for cityscapes and landscapes, this piece showcases his skill in mythological subjects.

Context

Venus reflects the Baroque period's fascination with classical mythology and the technical advancements in etching during this time. Hollar's work in England contributed to the cross-cultural exchange of artistic themes and techniques.

Legacy

As a characteristic example of Hollar's etching technique, Venus contributes to the artist's reputation for detailed, realistic renderings across various subjects, from landscapes to mythological themes.

Own this work as a print

Artist & collection

Artist

Wenceslaus Hollar

Wenceslaus Hollar (Czech: Václav Hollar (Czech pronunciation: ), German: Wenzel Hollar; 23 July 1607 – 25 March 1677) was a Czech engraver, etcher and painter.