The Birth of Cupid
Master of Flora (Italian, Fontainebleau, second half of 16th century)
Oil on wood; Overall 42 1/2 x 51 3/8 in. (108 x 130.5 cm), including added strip of 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm) at top
Rogers Fund, 1941 (41.48)
Master of Flora (Italian, Fontainebleau, second half of 16th century)
Oil on wood; Overall 42 1/2 x 51 3/8 in. (108 x 130.5 cm), including added strip of 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm) at top
Rogers Fund, 1941 (41.48)
The subject of this panel is the Birth of Cupid. Venus is shown attended by the Four Hours, one of whom anoints the head of the newborn child, and by the Three Graces, who push back the curtains and scatter flowers while the god of love reclines on an elaborate couch. Exemplary of the style practiced at the School of Fontainebleau, this panel's relieflike composition features elongated bodies with exceedingly small hands and feet, iridescent flesh tones, elaborate coiffures with stiff curls, and brilliant colors as found in the drapery and decoration.

















