Antique French Mythological Painting of Venus and Cupid
Oil on canvas | Circa mid-19th century | Found in France
Framed dimensions: approx. 33” x 27”
This richly painted antique oil on canvas captures a classical mythological scene, likely depicting Venus and Cupid in an intimate allegorical moment. The nude female figure—goddess of love—tenders to the playful Cupid, who gazes upward while holding a mirror, a symbolic gesture often tied to beauty and vanity. Above them, two doves, sacred to Venus, rest on a draped canopy—further affirming the classical theme. Set within a romantic wooded landscape and flanked by a columned structure, the painting reflects the 19th-century French academic tradition, with clear influence from Rococo revival and salon painting.
The ornate giltwood frame is period appropriate, deeply molded with acanthus leaf and egg-and-dart details, and displays attractive age and patina.
Condition: Craquelure and minor wear consistent with age. No visible signature, though the quality and handling are notable. The canvas appears untouched on the verso with an early lining or secondary stretcher.
Antique French Mythological Painting of Venus and Cupid
Oil on canvas | Circa mid-19th century | Found in France
Framed dimensions: approx. 33” x 27”
This richly painted antique oil on canvas captures a classical mythological scene, likely depicting Venus and Cupid in an intimate allegorical moment. The nude female figure—goddess of love—tenders to the playful Cupid, who gazes upward while holding a mirror, a symbolic gesture often tied to beauty and vanity. Above them, two doves, sacred to Venus, rest on a draped canopy—further affirming the classical theme. Set within a romantic wooded landscape and flanked by a columned structure, the painting reflects the 19th-century French academic tradition, with clear influence from Rococo revival and salon painting.
The ornate giltwood frame is period appropriate, deeply molded with acanthus leaf and egg-and-dart details, and displays attractive age and patina.
Condition: Craquelure and minor wear consistent with age. No visible signature, though the quality and handling are notable. The canvas appears untouched on the verso with an early lining or secondary stretcher.