Primavera (Italian for "Spring")
Sandro Botticelli
Description
Primavera depicts a group of mythological figures in an orange grove, symbolizing the lush growth of spring. The central figure is Venus, the Roman goddess of love, standing in a modest pose. Above her, a blindfolded Cupid aims his arrow. To her right, Zephyrus, the wind god, pursues the nymph Chloris, who transforms into Flora, the goddess of flowers. To Venus's left, the Three Graces dance gracefully, and Mercury stands at the far left, dispersing clouds with his caduceus.
Analysis
Primavera is often read as an allegory a symbolic story about different types of love and the arrival of spring as a season of renewal. It reflects Renaissance interest in combining classical mythology with deeper philosophical ideas, like the connection between physical beauty and spiritual love. The painting also reflects Neoplatonic thought, which was popular in Florence at the time.
Details
- Date:Late 1470s or early 1480s
- Medium:Tempera on panel
- Dimensions:Approximately 203 cm x 314 cm
- Location:Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy