Amorini in gioco con il carro di Venere
Francesco Albani (Bologna 1578 - 1660) bottega
Albani Francesco (Bologna 1578 – 1660) workshop
Cupids at play, entertaining themselves with Venus’s chariot
Oil on canvas
56 x 165 cm.
In frame 63 x 172 cm.
The painting depicts a festive mythological scene with numerous cherubs engaged in an allegorical game, captured whilst holding the reins of Venus’s chariot, gilded and richly decorated, an emblem and symbol of the triumph of love and beauty.
Seated triumphantly on the chariot is Cupid, recognisable by his bow and the quiver he carries on his shoulder, drawn by other small cherubs and winged cupids, who move in a sort of procession or dance, conveying an atmosphere of festive joy.
To the right of the scene, a cherub runs with his head turned towards the chariot, trying to pull it along by means of a thin blue ribbon, whilst his companion, who should be assisting him at his side, has fallen to the ground and is in despair, adding a touch of spontaneity to the composition.
Stylistically, the work recalls the Emilian Baroque and, in particular, the compositions of the Bolognese painter Francesco Albani (Bologna 1578–1660), famous for his allegorical scenes teeming with cherubs and known for the grace of his mythological scenes set amidst the idyll of nature. Notable is the composition entitled ‘The Dance of the Cupids’ (https://catalogo.beniculturali.it/detail/HistoricOrArtisticProperty/0300180187 ), created by Albani and now in the Pinacoteca di Brera, a work that has always enjoyed extraordinary critical and public acclaim, and was certainly taken as a source of inspiration by the artist of our work.
Looking at the work in detail, the children’s naked bodies stand out thanks to a skilful use of light against a dark, wooded background. Although it is difficult to make a precise attribution among the numerous pupils of Albani’s prolific workshop, we can nevertheless note that our canvas is characterised by a highly refined technique, a careful and fluid hand, capable of capturing fine details and maintaining a clear colour palette.
In Renaissance and Baroque art, the iconographic choice of the Chariot of Venus is traditionally associated with the triumph of Love over all things. The happy, carefree cherubs praising Cupid for having fulfilled his mission symbolised the overwhelming power of romantic love, profane love and the protection of the new union.
It is therefore plausible that our painting, given its symbolic value, was commissioned as a betrothal gift or wedding present, intended for the couple’s bedroom.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
The work is sold complete with an attractive gilded frame, a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic sheet.
We arrange and organise the transport of purchased works, both within Italy and abroad, using professional and insured carriers.
It is also possible to view the painting at our gallery in Riva del Garda; we would be delighted to welcome you to show you our collection of works.
Please feel free to contact us for any further information.
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