AN ITALIAN IVORY RELIEF OF CUPID, AS 'LOVE THE CONQUEROR', the winged putto shown amid symbols of strength, his left foot tredding on a bull's head and spade, a Corinthian column borne over his right shoulder, his quiver hanging from his right side and bow held in his left hand, a sailing boat on a river and a citadel beyond, with label on the reverse inscribed Omnia Vincit Amor (Virgile, Egl. X, v.69) (background partially broken; in Venetian parcel-gilt-wood frame), 17th Century

Details

AN ITALIAN IVORY RELIEF OF CUPID, AS 'LOVE THE CONQUEROR', the winged putto shown amid symbols of strength, his left foot tredding on a bull's head and spade, a Corinthian column borne over his right shoulder, his quiver hanging from his right side and bow held in his left hand, a sailing boat on a river and a citadel beyond, with label on the reverse inscribed Omnia Vincit Amor (Virgile, Egl. X, v.69) (background partially broken; in Venetian parcel-gilt-wood frame), 17th Century
2¾ x 1¾in. (7 x 4.5cm.)

Lot Essay

The present relief illustrates the popular adage from Virgil; "Love conquers all" (Ecl., 10:69). The triumphant Cupid is portrayed surpassing all feats of strength.

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