Sandro Botticelli created the painting titled Primavera between 1470 and 1480 in Italy, though the exact location is unclear (Wikipedia). Primavera is an Italian word meaning Spring, which becomes obvious as you scan the painting, noticing the various flowers and plant life in bloom. There are at least 138 species of flowers that have been identified in the painting (Uffizi). The painting has a mixture of mythological creatures, as well as the goddess Venus in the center.
When looking at the painting from right to left, you can see the progression of spring with the winds blowing in, and fruit appearing on the trees. There is also a strong depiction of fertility among the female figures with seemingly pregnant bellies. Zephyrus, the god of the west wind who is painted in blue tones, is embracing a Nymph named Chloris who then transforms into Flora, the goddess of spring (Uffizi).
Venus is dressed in a way suggesting marriage, with a modest hairstyle and attire. Venus has in her company the Three Graces, Pleasure, Chastity, and Beauty who are holding hands and dressed in sheer clothing (Wide Walls 2020). One of the Graces is being shot at with an arrow by a blindfolded cupid. To the far left, we can see Mercury who is the messenger of the gods donning his winged sandals. He is also known as the god of May, while Venus is known as the goddess of April, further suggesting the progression of spring.
This artwork was part of a collection found hung in the house of Lorenzo di Pierfrancesco de Medici who was a cousin of Lorenzo the Magnificent. This is not surprising, since it is rumored to have been a present for his wedding in 1482, though this has not been confirmed (Wikipedia). Historians link symbols in the artwork to the Medici family such as the orange groves which are found on the family crest, laurel trees, and flames on the clothing of Mercury and Venus which is a symbol of medicine.
The art now hangs in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy. While I do enjoy this painting and am intrigued by the mythology captured in it, I do not believe I would own a copy. I'd love to see it in person, hanging in a gallery since it is quite a large piece. I love the warm tones of the figures and the soft flow of fabrics. The dark contrasting background keeps your eyes focused on the details of the figures and gives dimension to the piece. Primavera is truly a Renaissance work of art with its characteristics of being privately owned, having a non-religious theme, the depth of the painting, and a depiction of the rebirth of naturalism.
Bibliography:
Wikipedia Primavera (Botticelli) - Wikipedia
The Uffizi Gallery Spring by Botticelli | Artworks | Uffizi Galleries
Wide Walls What You Need To Know About Botticelli’s Primavera | Widewalls
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