Venus And Her Satellites 1835

William Etty created this oil painting, "Venus And Her Satellites", during the first half of the 19th century in England. It is an ambitious work that reflects the period's fascination with classical mythology and its evolving attitudes towards the human body. Etty was working at a time when the Royal Academy was the center of the British art world, so the painting looks to traditions of history painting that had been taught there since its founding. But the frank depiction of nudity challenged British social mores and academic conventions, as did Etty's insistence on painting from life models in his studio. The classical setting and figures allow Etty to explore themes of beauty and sensuality, while the discarded armor suggests a commentary on the power of love and the transience of military glory. To understand the painting better, we can explore Etty's life and career through archival sources, exhibition reviews, and the writings of his contemporaries. We can use these to learn more about the social and institutional contexts that shaped both the creation and reception of this painting.