Collection

Mischievous Cupid

Bartolomeo Biscaino

Basic information

ID: Ж-345
Author: Bartolomeo Biscaino
Name: Mischievous Cupid
Date of creation: 17th c.
Country: Italy
Technique: oil painting
Material: canvas oil
Dimensions (height x width, cm): 72 x 48.3

Additionally

Type: painting
Genre: allegory
Plot: Cupid
Provenance: Collection of Lviv City Gallery

Information about author

Author: Bartolomeo Biscaino
Artist's lifetime: 1632–1657
Biography: Bartolomeo Biscaino was born in Genoa in 1629. He first studied under his father, Giovanni Andrea Biscaino, a painter. Later, around 1650, he entered Valerio Castello's workshop and became one of his most famous students. He adapted the manner of the teacher to his painting style. In contrast to the almost scenographic compositions typical of Valerio Castello's works, Bartolomeo Biscaino created more intimate paintings with classicistic figures. The artist was known for his ability to expressively stylise the human body, predominantly female figures with complex drapery.

Object description

The painting is traditionally attributed to Bartolomeo Biscaino. However, it is most likely the work of another unknown Genoese artist of the mid-17th century. The painting depicts a young Cupid engaged in inappropriate activity. Various objects of secular luxuries, such as a sheet of staff, a violin, the head of an antique sculpture, a palette with brushes, and silver coins, lie under his feet. The interest in antitheses, especially in the theme of "vanity of vanities" or "vanitas vanitatum", dominated Baroque painting. The work satirically demonstrates that all earthly blessings, such as art and money, fade in contrast to love.

Mischievous Cupid

Other