Book contents
- Venus and the Arts of Love in Renaissance Florence
- Venus and the Arts of Love in Renaissance Florence
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Figures
- Acknowledgments
- Introduction
- One Golden Splendor
- Two Cultivating Complexions
- Three Sartorial Seduction
- Four Green Gardens
- Five Erotic Anatomy
- Six Maritime Treasures
- Conclusion
- Bibliography
- Index
Six - Maritime Treasures
Venus’ Gifts from the Sea
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 04 March 2021
- Venus and the Arts of Love in Renaissance Florence
- Venus and the Arts of Love in Renaissance Florence
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Figures
- Acknowledgments
- Introduction
- One Golden Splendor
- Two Cultivating Complexions
- Three Sartorial Seduction
- Four Green Gardens
- Five Erotic Anatomy
- Six Maritime Treasures
- Conclusion
- Bibliography
- Index
Summary
Chapter 6 investigates Venus’ aquatic origins and her opulent gifts from the sea. As Duke of Florence from 1537 to 1574, Cosimo I de’ Medici ambitiously pursued maritime projects that expanded the reach of Florence beyond the Arno valley. Allusions to his new domain appear at the Villa Castello and Palazzo Vecchio in the figure of Venus Anadyomene, who rises nude from the salty womb of the sea as nereids and tritons present her with aquatic treasures desired by the ducal court, including ambergris, coral, and pearls.
- Type
- Chapter
- Information
- Venus and the Arts of Love in Renaissance Florence , pp. 203 - 241Publisher: Cambridge University PressPrint publication year: 2021