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Cupid

Attributedattributed to Nicolò Roccatagliata (Italian, active ca. 1560 - 1636)

ClassificationsSCULPTURE

Datelate 16th-early 17th Century

Mediumbronze

Dimensions14 1/2 in. (36.8 cm.)

DescriptionThis sculpture portrays Cupid, the Roman god of love, blowing a trumpet.

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

Status

On view

Label TextRenaissance patrons sought objects for their homes that both embodied their culture and refinement and served as sources of delectation and contemplation. Often made in imitation of classical sculpture, either as reduced copies of known sculptures or invented subjects produced all'antica (in the style of antiquity), small bronzes contributed to the spread of classical taste in the 15th and 16th centuries. A collector would likely have kept such statuettes in a private study along with books and other objects of fascination, such as scientific instruments or natural specimens.

Object number10.150

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