Title: Mars and Venus
Artist: In The Manner Of Gérard De Lairesse (1641-1711)
Medium: Ink and Watercolour on Paper
Date: 1768
Dimensions: 18 x 14 cm; Frame: 27.7 x 24.7 cm
Condition: Good

Description:
This exquisite painting, titled "Mars and Venus," is rendered in ink and watercolour on paper, dated 1768. Created in the manner of the renowned Dutch Golden Age painter Gérard De Lairesse, this piece captures the mythological romance between Mars, the god of war, and Venus, the goddess of love. The intimate scene is brought to life with delicate strokes and a masterful use of color, characteristic of De Lairesse's style.

The composition includes a river god and various putti, adding depth and narrative richness to the artwork. The figures are gracefully depicted, with Mars and Venus centrally positioned, surrounded by symbolic elements that enhance the mythological theme.

A similar work by De Lairesse, featuring Mars, Venus, a river god, and putti, is part of the Kunstsammlung der Universität Göttingen in Germany (inv./cat.nr Sammlung Uffenbach H 381), providing a notable point of reference for this painting's stylistic and thematic elements.

Provenance:
The reverse of the painting bears a reference to a Sotheby's London auction held in 1929, indicating its historical journey and adding to its provenance.