The Birth of Venus by Botticelli – Uffizi Gallery

Sandro Botticelli was probably the most attached artist to the Medici Court, especially to the figure of Lorenzo the Magnificent for who has performed many works. The Birth of Venus, painted between 1482 and 1485, is undoubtedly one of the most famous and beloved artworks in the world and has become a symbol of the Italian painting of 400s.

Sandro Botticelli painted the Birth of Venus with tempera on a linen cloth. The painting has 172 cm for 278 cm and is located inside the Uffizi Gallery. This marvelous work of art is full of allegorical meanings and references to the antiquity. The philosophical significance associated with neoplatonism says that the work represents the birth of love and spiritual beauty. The iconography of Venus is definitely a classic theme where the modest Venus covers the intimate parts timidly. We see a Venus full of grace and unparalleled beauty that moves lightly painted naked on a shell over the surface of the sea rippled by the waves.

Winds fly to her left and is pushed and heated by Zeffiro’s breath, the fertilizer wind, with a cascade of roses. Zeffiro is embraced by a female character symbolizing the physicality of the act of love which makes Venus move with the wind of passion. On the right a quill with a silk dress richly decorated with flowers and roses and flower garlands, waits for the goddess to dress her with a beautiful pink mantle embroidered with flowers to protect her.

Sandro Botticelli has given art history, with the Birth of Venus, one of his most sublime masterpieces. This iconic work of the Italian Renaissance is the first example in Tuscany of great canvas painting, and has become a symbol of Florence itself as well as Michelangelo’s famous David at the Accademia Gallery.

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