Venus Sailing on a Shell c. 18th century

Curator: This is Francesco Bartolozzi’s "Venus Sailing on a Shell," held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It strikes me as incredibly buoyant. The line work is so delicate, it almost floats off the page. Curator: Indeed, the imagery echoes that lightness. Venus, goddess of love, is framed by cherubs and diaphanous fabrics, all riding on a seashell. Shells have long been associated with femininity, pilgrimage, and the journey of the soul. Editor: I see a strong emphasis on curvilinear forms. The composition undulates, guiding the eye in a continuous, almost playful dance. Curator: Yes, and Venus herself holds a mirror, a symbol of self-awareness and reflection, but also of vanity. It's a fascinating mix of classical ideals and subtle critiques. Editor: I agree, the mirroring motif enhances the ethereal quality. It leaves us reflecting on the interplay between beauty, vanity, and the symbolic voyage of life. Curator: A journey that Bartolozzi beautifully captures through these enduring symbols.