c. 1540
Venus and Cupid
Battista Dossi (Battista de' Luteri)Italian (active Ferrara), c. 1474 - 1548
Several details in this picture suggest that it is an allegorical portrait of a young bride as Venus. She restrains a naughty Cupid from shooting a lead-tipped arrow (for extinguishing love rather than kindling it). The laurel tree with its clinging vine suggests hope for long-lasting love. Finally, Venus's revealed breast symbolizes voluptuousness, while the covered one represents modesty, two virtues appropriate in a bride.
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