A Sleeping Cupid c. early 16th century

This bronze roundel, "A Sleeping Cupid," was made by Pseudo Antonio da Brescia sometime in the 16th century. The artist's chosen material, bronze, has a rich history. In Renaissance Italy, bronze casting was a highly esteemed craft, linking the artist to classical traditions. This piece likely began as a wax model, carefully formed to capture the soft, rounded features of the sleeping Cupid and the details of the surrounding landscape. Molten bronze was then poured into a mold, solidifying into this lasting image. The artist's skill is evident in the fine details and the smooth, polished surface of the bronze, a testament to the labor-intensive process of casting and finishing. The choice of bronze elevates the subject matter, associating it with the status and permanence of classical sculpture, a popular choice for wealthy patrons. This roundel stands as a reminder that the value and significance of art objects lies not only in their aesthetic qualities but also in the skills, techniques, and social contexts of their creation.