Artwork

Venus and Cupid with a Bow

Venus and Cupid with a Bow, by John Baptist Jackson, ink, 1731
Venus and Cupid with a Bow, by John Baptist Jackson, ink, 1731

Venus and Cupid with a Bow is an ink print by the Baroque artist John Baptist Jackson. It dates from 1731 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower center in block: Tho. Brand Arm. Hospit. Temp D. D. D / J. B. Jackson sculptor; along left edge in image: F. M. Parm Inv.; verso in graphite: No. 2

About this work

Overview

Venus and Cupid with a Bow is a chiaroscuro woodcut created by John Baptist Jackson in 1731. It is a print made from four woodblocks on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Venus, the Roman goddess of love, and her son Cupid. Cupid is shown aiming a bow at Venus, who holds him. The scene is characterized by a contrast between the softly lit figures and a dark background.

Technique & Style

The woodcut achieves its tonal effects through the use of four colors: blue-gray, light brown, brown, and black. Jackson's technique involved subtle overprinting and heavy embossing, creating a range of colors and textures that give the print a painterly quality.

History & Provenance

John Baptist Jackson was a British printmaker active in Paris and Venice during the 18th century. He was known for his innovative chiaroscuro woodcuts, often reproducing oil paintings.

Venus and Cupid
Venus and Cupid, Pierre Lacour the Elder

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Baptist Jackson

Artist

John Baptist Jackson

John Baptist Jackson (1701–1780) was a British artist, a woodcut printmaker of the eighteenth century.

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

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Venus and Cupid with a Bow?

Venus and Cupid with a Bow was painted by John Baptist Jackson in 1731.

Where can I see Venus and Cupid with a Bow?

Venus and Cupid with a Bow is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Venus and Cupid with a Bow?

Venus and Cupid with a Bow is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Venus and Cupid with a Bow?

Museum-quality prints of Venus and Cupid with a Bow are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.