Mars Bound by Cupid, c. 1515-1520 (drypoint)

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Mars Bound by Cupid, c. 1515-1520 (drypoint)

883708 Mars Bound by Cupid, c.1515-1520 (drypoint) by Master of 1515 (fl.1515-20); 17.5x13.2 cm; Minneapolis Institute of Arts, MN, USA; (add.info.: Eschewing the accepted religious and moralizing themes of the day, the Master of 1515 concentrated on wit and whimsy. In Mars Bound by Cupid, a mock-serious Cupid incapacitates the god of war, who is seated ignominiously on a heap of his own armour. The master is known for using drypoint more often than any other sixteenth-century artist, a technique that accounts for the soft, lush ink pooling in the shadows in this remarkably fresh print.); eMinneapolis Institute of Art; Bequest of Herschel V. Jones; Italian, out of copyright

Media ID 23502046

© Minneapolis Institute of Art Bequest of Herschel V. Jones / Bridgeman Images

Blindfold Bow And Arrow Deities Gods Monochrome Muscular Restrain Sideways Tied Up Whimsical Wing Winged Bind

EDITORS COMMENTS
The captivating print "Mars Bound by Cupid" transports us back to the early 16th century, where the Master of 1515 defied convention and embraced wit and whimsy. In this intriguing artwork, we witness a mock-serious scene as Cupid, the mischievous god of love, restrains Mars, the powerful god of war. Seated ignominiously on a heap of his own armor, Mars finds himself incapacitated by the tiny but potent arrows of love. The artist's mastery in drypoint technique is evident in this remarkably fresh print. Soft shadows and lush ink pooling create an atmosphere that draws us into this mythological encounter. The composition showcases a full-length profile view of Mars with his classical axe nearby while Cupid stands triumphantly behind him with wings spread wide. This idiosyncratic portrayal challenges traditional depictions of deities and explores themes such as power dynamics and vulnerability. The blindfolded Cupid symbolizes how love can often be blind to reason or logic. As we gaze upon this monochromatic engraving, we are captivated by the muscular forms and angelic beauty depicted within it. This artwork invites contemplation on the complexities inherent in human emotions and desires. "Mars Bound by Cupid" is part of Minneapolis Institute of Arts' collection, generously bequeathed by Herschel V. Jones. It serves as a testament to both artistic skill and imagination from centuries past while continuing to inspire viewers today with its timeless charm.

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