Venus Anadiomene (Titian)

History

The **Venus Anadiomene** is an oil painting on canvas, measuring 73.6x58.4 cm, attributed to Titian and dating back to approximately 1520. The work is preserved in the National Gallery of Scotland in Edinburgh.

There is some uncertainty regarding the exact date of creation, with some sources suggesting it was painted for Alfonso I d'Este in 1517. However, the most widely accepted dating refers to the work as being created around 1520, based on a comparison with Titian's **Baccanale degli Andrii**, which features a naked nymph.

Provenance

The painting has had several owners throughout its history. It was once part of the collection of Cristina of Sweden and the Duke of Orléans. The work was already in the collections of the Count of Ellesmere, which were deposited in the Scottish museum, before being finally acquired by the National Gallery of Scotland in 2003.

Conservation

The **Venus Anadiomene** is in excellent condition for its age, with an X-ray taken during a restoration revealing that the goddess's head was originally positioned differently in the composition.

Description and Style

The painting depicts the birth of the goddess from the waters of the sea of Cyprus. The work showcases Titian's mastery of oil painting and his ability to capture the beauty and elegance of the human form.