Western Europe, probably Italy, late 17th to 18th century. Beautifully modelled painting of the scene of Adonis lying dead at the foot of the distraught Venus, Cherub standing contra pasto behind, chariot to the rear, two doves in the forest setting. Framed in gilded (XRF tested as gold) wood frame, brick-red velvet matting. The frame is antique but probably not contemporary to the painting. Size: 21.5" W x 18.5" H (54.6 cm x 47 cm)

Venus dreamed that Adonis had an accident while hunting. She rushed to try to prevent him from going off to hunt, but Adonis ignored her. He thought Venus was crazy to believe in such dreams. Unfortunately, Venus's dream came true: during the hunt, a wild pig with large tusks killed Adonis. A heartbroken Venus had to watch her poor Adonis die because he did not listen to her warning. The moral of the story, listen to your lover or get bored to death!

Provenance: private Rancho Mirage, California, USA collection, by inheritance in 2020; ex-Dr. TDR Berreth, California, USA, acquired before 1982

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#179071

Rear of frame with mitigated worm holes. Painting could probably use a good cleaning but color still vibrant for the age.