Artwork
Venus and Cupid with a Bow

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.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
John Baptist Jackson (1701–1780) was a British artist, a woodcut printmaker of the eighteenth century.







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