Paintings by Botticelli, Raphael, Velázquez, Gerard ter Borch, and Vermeer, including an unusual Madonna in which the Virgin Mary is writing the Magnificat.
Botticelli
With Umberto Eco as our guide, explore Parnassus, the Garden of Earthly Delights, Alcina’s island, Colchis, and the Garden of the Hesperides.
Seldom shown in lead roles, superb paintings by masters including Botticelli, Blake, Renoir, and Velázquez, and one strange myth to finish.
Most popularly painted in his lovemaking with Aphrodite, Ares developed a life of his own in painted allegories, particularly those of Rubens.
Lucretia’s rape and suicide, painted by Veronese, Artemisia Gentileschi, Rembrandt, and Kneller, and a wonderful David.
Was a primordial deity, attendant at Aphrodite’s birth, or her son by Ares/Mars? When did he get his bow and arrows? Answered in fine paintings.
Often an excuse for a classical nude, at least two paintings show her clothed, and many reveal her love affairs.
Some of the greatest figurative artists including Botticelli, Titian, Poussin, Boucher, Ingres, Moreau, and Joseph Stella.
The Marriage Feast at Cana, and works by Botticelli, von Carolsfeld, and Dante Gabriel Rossetti featuring wedding feasts.
Reading many European paintings depends on identifying classical deities shown. This new series helps you do that, and understand what’s going on.
