Description
This plaquette interprets an ancient Greek poem by Theocritus. Having been stung by a swarm of bees after attempting to steal their honey, Cupid sought refuge in the arms of his mother Venus, the goddess of love. Surprised that such small creatures could cause such great pain, Venus reminded Cupid, that like the sting of a bee, love’s arrow could be dangerous.
Provenance
Probably Max Rosenheim, 1849-1911 (Vienna, Austria) and/or Maurice Rosenheim, died 1922 (England).; Cyril Humphris, Ltd. (London, England).; Blumka Gallery (New York, New York), sold to the Cleveland Museum of Art, 1984.
Accession Number
1984.15
Medium
lead
Dimensions
Overall: 6.8 x 9.2 cm (2 11/16 x 3 5/8 in.)
Classification
Sculpture
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund