Allegory of the Arts 1740

Pompeo Batoni created this painting, Allegory of the Arts, in Italy, probably sometime in the middle of the 18th century. It shows a group of women who each represent different forms of artistic practice. These personifications of the arts are bathed in a soft light, and the painting on the easel depicts Mars, the Roman god of war. This could be a veiled reference to the political function of art, or perhaps a statement about its ability to survive and endure, even during times of conflict. The presence of classical motifs such as the broken statue and the laurel wreath suggest an interest in reviving the artistic values of antiquity, which was typical of the period. The 18th century was a time when academies and institutions were becoming more involved in shaping the direction of art. By looking at the writings of those who belonged to these organizations, and the artworks that were exhibited in public, we can learn more about the changing role of art in society.