Who painted Venus and Jupiter (from Stodmarsh Court, Kent)?

Venus and Jupiter (from Stodmarsh Court, Kent) was painted by Virgil Solis.

Where can I see Venus and Jupiter (from Stodmarsh Court, Kent)?

Venus and Jupiter (from Stodmarsh Court, Kent) is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Venus and Jupiter (from Stodmarsh Court, Kent)?

Venus and Jupiter (from Stodmarsh Court, Kent) is associated with Late Mannerism.

Artwork

Venus and Jupiter (from Stodmarsh Court, Kent)

Virgil Solis

Venus and Jupiter (from Stodmarsh Court, Kent) is an unspecified painting by the Late Mannerist artist Virgil Solis. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Venus and Jupiter is a 1600 mythological painting by Virgil Solis, now part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection. Originally from Stodmarsh Court, Kent, the work is a black and white depiction of the two mythological figures.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays Venus and Jupiter, identified by labels above them. Venus, holding a bow and arrow, and Jupiter, with scepter and cup, embody classical mythological themes, drawing on Renaissance revival of ancient motifs.

Technique & Style

Executed in a classical style, the figures wear attire characteristic of Renaissance interpretations of antiquity (Venus in a flowing robe, Jupiter in a toga). The work's damaged state obscures background details, revealing a landscape with buildings and trees.

History & Provenance

Created in 1600 by Virgil Solis, the painting originated from Stodmarsh Court in Kent before being acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Context

The painting reflects the Renaissance era's fascination with classical mythology and artistic styles, characteristic of the period's artistic output.

Legacy

While the painting's current damaged state affects its visibility, it remains a testament to Solis' contribution to Renaissance mythological art, offering insight into 17th-century artistic practices and thematic interests.

The Triumph of Julius Caesar [no.1 and 2 plus 2 columns], Andrea Andreani

Artist & collection

Artist

Virgil Solis

Virgil Solis or Virgilius Solis (1514 – 1 August 1562), a member of a prolific family of artists, was a German draughtsman and printmaker in engraving, etching and woodcut who worked in his native city of Nuremberg.