A BRONZE GROUP OF VENUS AND CUPID

In its subject matter, the physiognomies and the frontal nature of the composition, this group is related to two pendant bronze groups of Venus Disarming Cupid and Psyche Discovering Cupid which are known in numerous examples. One pair of these was included in the exhibition of French bronzes at Knoedler and Co. (loc. cit.) where they were described as 'attributed to Corneille van Cleve'. Although this attribution remains controversial, the present delicately executed bronze is certainly influenced by his work. Van Cleve, who trained under Michel Anguier as well as spending time in Rome and Venice, had a hugely successful career, and worked extensively for Louis XIV at Versailles, as well as for private clients.