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Notes
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The imagery suggests it was made to celebrate a new heir. Venus, the goddess of love and fertility, gestures lovingly towards an infant, who is held by a winged figure – a personification of Time, who has here laid aside his scythe. The act symbolises immortality, although the hourglass at his waist suggests the inevitable passing of time. In the clouds above, the Three Graces bless the child by scattering flowers.
Tiepolo’s characteristic loose handling of paint can be seen in Time’s feathery wings, and his delicate colouring in Venus' pale flesh and striking pink drapery, in contrast with Time’s brown skin and brilliant blue loincloth.
Title
An Allegory with Venus and Time
Date
about 1754-8
Medium
Oil on canvas
Measurements
H 292 x W 190.4 cm
Accession number
NG6387
Acquisition method
Bought with a special grant and a contribution from The Pilgrim Trust, 1969
Work type
Painting