Cabanel documents a vision through fantastical
realism that relies on embellishments in color and shape that verge on
impossibility. That is, subject matter is fantasy, form verges on the fantastic
but remains realistic. Beyond that, Cabanel uses canonical formal measures to
bring an imagined image to life, and vitality saturates the canvas. The arrival
of a version of the very symbol of feminine beauty and fertility could only have
occurred on such a magically picturesque day. While Botticelli’s Venus is bashful,
Cabanel’s seems to be more Eve-like, or innocent. Both are heralded and associated
with the sea and nature
The primary formal measure used to draw
interest and infuse this composition with youthful energy is a stark yet
seamless conflict in chromatic complementary color (blue vs orange). The warm,
glowing flesh of the living is masterfully locked into various states of action
through the fluidity of cool, natural forms. Gestalt establishes a close-proximity
relationship between the figures. Modelling, intuitive color temperature and a
contrast between presence and eternity develop this work’s pictorial depth.
The chubbiness and joyful expression of
the cherubs are analogous to Venus’ healthy form and warm disposition. The two
subjects bring out contrasts in size, age and energy. While the nakedness of
Venus’ form is undeniably charged with sensuality, that of the cherubs is child-like.
The steady, peaceful impression of the waves is repeated by the rhythm of Venus’
curves. Flowing along her body, framed by her arms, chest and the directional
motion of the two figures above her face, most of the pictorial flow rests on
her peaceful expression. The nearby positioning of the observer attempts to draw
them into Cabanel’s fantasy.
This work represents a complicated period in western artistic tradition where tastes (specifically French) still favored romantic subject matter that referenced the other-worldly, but changed in that they longed for more Earthly, reality-based accessibility. Cabanel accomplishes this in large part due to his undeniably masterful rendering of skin, bodily forms and his skill in modelling. By reducing the glow of Venus’ skin when compared to the putti, and rendering her in an erotic pose, she is more “accessible” to the casual observer.
This work represents a complicated period in western artistic tradition where tastes (specifically French) still favored romantic subject matter that referenced the other-worldly, but changed in that they longed for more Earthly, reality-based accessibility. Cabanel accomplishes this in large part due to his undeniably masterful rendering of skin, bodily forms and his skill in modelling. By reducing the glow of Venus’ skin when compared to the putti, and rendering her in an erotic pose, she is more “accessible” to the casual observer.
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