Allegory Of Fertility (18th Century)

This oil on canvas from the second half of the 18th century depicts fertility in the form of a joyful procession with putti and animals. The allegory of fertility was a fairly popular theme in art from the 17th century onward. Although this work can be described as revelatory for its time, the anonymous artist incorporated several symbolic references to this theme. Animals play an important role. The hare in the lower left corner symbolizes lust and the animal need to reproduce. Similarly, the two bulls on the canvas were venerated in ancient times as symbols of masculine strength and fertility. The goats, present in several places in the work, represent innocence and vulnerability, providing a counterbalance. The human figures, on the other hand, leave little to the imagination. The female figure, her breasts bare, walks blithely through the parade while being watched from the bushes by a man whose less than honorable intentions are underlined by the bull against which he is leaning.Condition: The painting and frame are in good condition with no visible signs of damage.Dimensions of the work: Height: 47.00 cm; Width: 63.00 cm