The artwork “Venus and Amor,” created circa 1524-1525 by Hans Holbein the Younger, is an oil painting on wood from the Northern Renaissance period. With dimensions of 34.6 x 26.2 cm, this mythological painting depicts Venus and Amor in a tender and intimate scene. The painting is housed in the Kunstmuseum Basel in Basel, Switzerland.
The artwork illustrates Venus and Amor set against a draped background of green fabric, adding depth and richness to the composition. Venus, depicted as a serene and graceful figure, gazes directly at the viewer with a composed and gentle expression, portraying an aura of maternal warmth and beauty. She is adorned in a vivid red and gold garment, richly detailed with white ruffles and black embroidery, which exemplifies Holbein’s meticulous attention to detail and the intricate craftsmanship characteristic of the Northern Renaissance style.
Amor, the infant god of love, is positioned in the foreground, partly wrapped in Venus’ arm, which is extended slightly as if inviting the viewer into the scene. The child grasps a slender object, possibly a bow, symbolizing his role as the bringer of love. The juxtaposition of Venus’ rich attire with Amor’s tender, youthful innocence underscores the themes of divine beauty and love, central to this mythological narrative. The painting’s brilliant colors and fine details reflect Holbein’s mastery in portraying texture and lifelike figures, marking it as an exemplary piece of Renaissance art.
